# contrivance

> English word · Noun · IPA /kənˈtɹaɪ.vəns/ · frequency rank #68,117

## Definitions
1. A (mechanical) device to perform a certain task.
2. A means, such as an elaborate plan or strategy, to accomplish a certain objective.
3. Something overly artful or artificial.

## Etymology
From contrive + -ance.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/contrivance