Definition

A clever plan or device that is created to solve a problem or achieve a specific purpose.

Example

The inventor showed us his latest contrivance that could help with recycling waste.

Conversation

Have you seen that new contrivance they invented for the kitchen?

Yeah, I saw it online; it looks pretty cool!

I wonder if it really works as well as they claim.

I guess we’ll have to wait for some reviews to see if it's worth the hype.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Contrivance → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "trivium" (from Latin, meaning a place where three roads meet, or a meeting point). The word refers to a device or scheme that is cleverly devised or put together.

Memory Tip

Think of 'together' ('con-') and a 'meeting point' ('trivium') where ideas come together to create a clever device or scheme.

Visually Confused Words