as in gadget
an interesting and often novel device with a practical use
built a contraption for automatically buttering toast
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of contraption
Retro-looking flashy contraptions like the Ford Volante concept car.
—
Joe Salas
may 07, New Atlas, 7 May 2025
However, instead of a more traditional setup the contraption featured five rows of keys topped with Chinese characters.
—Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 7 May 2025
From sleek supercars that look like they should be driven by movie villains to whimsical contraptions that lean more toward Pixar animation, the designs in this portfolio are sure to rev up petrolheads.
—The Editors, Robb Report, 19 Apr. 2025
Inventors like Richard Arkwright and James Hargreaves had mechanized spinning with various contraptions, but weaving initially remained too complex to automate.
—John Cassidy, New Yorker, 14 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for contraption
Joe Salas
may 07, New Atlas, 7 May 2025
However, instead of a more traditional setup the contraption featured five rows of keys topped with Chinese characters.
—Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 7 May 2025
From sleek supercars that look like they should be driven by movie villains to whimsical contraptions that lean more toward Pixar animation, the designs in this portfolio are sure to rev up petrolheads.
—The Editors, Robb Report, 19 Apr. 2025
Inventors like Richard Arkwright and James Hargreaves had mechanized spinning with various contraptions, but weaving initially remained too complex to automate.
—John Cassidy, New Yorker, 14 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for contraption
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contraption
gadget
Noun
-
The rechargeable gadget has only one button to power it on, shut it down, and adjust its speed setting.—
Clint Davis,
People.com,
30 May 2025
-
The chair also comes equipped with a cupholder, a gadget holder, and a pillow.—
Brandi Fuller,
Better Homes & Gardens,
27 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Contraption.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contraption. Accessed 11 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share