Thesaurus
Synonyms & Antonyms of contrive
1
to create or think of by clever use of the imagination
- contrived abstract metal sculptures using old household utensils
Synonyms for contrive
Words Related to contrive
Phrases Synonymous with contrive
Near Antonyms for contrive
2
to engage in a secret plan to accomplish evil or unlawful ends
- the mischievous boys were always contriving and trying to pull the prank that would be the talk of the school
Synonyms for contrive
Words Related to contrive
3
to plan out usually with subtle skill or care
- contrived a way of planning the surprise party without their catching on to it
Synonyms for contrive
Words Related to contrive
Near Antonyms for contrive
Keep scrolling for more
Learn More About contrive
Cite this Entry
“Contrive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contrive. Accessed 25 Oct. 2021.
Style: MLA
MLA
Chicago
APA
Merriam-Webster
Chicago
APA
Merriam-Webster
Test Your Vocabulary
Difficult Spelling Words Quiz
-
- Which is the correct spelling?
Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Share contrive
Time Traveler for contrive
The first known use of contrive was in the 14th century
See more words from the same century