1
as in gadget
an interesting and often novel device with a practical use
a new contrivance for cleaning computer keyboards
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2
as in invention
something (as a device) created for the first time through the use of the imagination
despite the many modern contrivances for saving time and labor, we seem to have less leisure and energy than ever before
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in imagination
the ability to form mental images of things that either are not physically present or have never been conceived or created by others
in that writer's hands, narrative contrivance can often deteriorate into pointless gimmickry
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of contrivance
To add to the list of coincidences and contrivances, Danny’s sister Harper (Jessy Yates), is also an emergency medicine resident working through the storm.
—
Judy Berman, Time, 3 Apr. 2025
But contrivances now become necessary to keep some of the new supporting figures in play in a story like this.
—Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 11 May 2025
It should be replaced with a sprawling, soulless contrivance.
—Noah Rothman, National Review, 3 Apr. 2025
At one level, the film offers a comic commentary on the repetition of certain dramatic contrivances down the years.
—Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 28 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for contrivance
Judy Berman, Time, 3 Apr. 2025
But contrivances now become necessary to keep some of the new supporting figures in play in a story like this.
—Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 11 May 2025
It should be replaced with a sprawling, soulless contrivance.
—Noah Rothman, National Review, 3 Apr. 2025
At one level, the film offers a comic commentary on the repetition of certain dramatic contrivances down the years.
—Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 28 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for contrivance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contrivance
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
Noun
-
The invention of cities could be to blame for the proliferation of bedbugs (Cimex lectularius), according to a new study.—
Sara Hashemi,
Smithsonian Magazine,
28 May 2025
-
Similarly, if an A.I. system speeds the invention of a lifesaving medical device, that device must still be approved by the Food and Drug Administration.—
Joshua Rothman,
New Yorker,
27 May 2025
Noun
-
Environment builders go beyond the production of discreet, individual objects–like paintings or sculptures–to create entire worlds of imagination taking over their surroundings.—
Chadd Scott,
Forbes.com,
7 June 2025
-
Tha Carter revealed a new artist—one who could make hits and compete lyrically with not just his labelmates, but hip-hop’s elite, like his idol Jay-Z. C1 has been largely eclipsed in the public imagination by its Carter successors, but remains the most upbeat and bouncy of the series.—
Pitchfork,
Pitchfork,
6 June 2025
Noun
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An early morning fire at Arlington Garden in Pasadena on May 21 destroyed the garden’s storage shed and all the tools, event furniture and other equipment stored inside, as well as the electricity that powered its extensive drip irrigation system.—
Jeanette Marantos,
Los Angeles Times,
1 June 2025
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Opponents argue that non-lethal tools like bear-proof trash cans, fencing, and hazing should be used instead.—
Maria Davidson,
The Orlando Sentinel,
1 June 2025
Noun
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The Trump administration's stance on AI has largely aligned with that of companies, arguing that regulation would stymie innovation.—
Sudiksha Kochi,
USA Today,
7 June 2025
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For well-resourced jurisdictions, this could spur innovation.—
Emil Sayegh,
Forbes.com,
7 June 2025
Noun
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With interior chambers lined with perforated metal walls, the contraption somewhat resembles a fast-food restaurant’s deep fryer.—
Jessie Schiewe,
Los Angeles Times,
23 May 2025
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The 2-story contraption is similar to machines that weigh potato chips or pet food, but more sensitive, according to Diltz.—
Eleanor Nash,
Kansas City Star,
22 May 2025
Noun
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At The Horse Shoe Farm, an 85-acre boutique resort in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Turchin family has created a unique enclave of creativity, serenity, and natural beauty.—
Lydia Mansel,
Southern Living,
8 June 2025
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The final performance against Manchester United was about circumstance as much as design — without any serious midfield creativity, and leading for half the game — but Tottenham defended their box very well and, in truth, created almost no chances.—
Michael Cox,
New York Times,
7 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Contrivance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contrivance. Accessed 12 Jun. 2025.
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