# contrive

> English word · Verb · IPA /kənˈtɹaɪv/ · frequency rank #76,665

## Definitions
1. To invent by an exercise of ingeniosity; to devise
2. To invent, to make devices; to form designs especially by improvisation.
3. To project, cast, or set forth, as in a projection of light.
4. To spend (time, or a period).

## Etymology
From Middle English contreve (“to invent”), from Old French controver (Modern French controuver), from trover (“to find”) (French trouver).

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