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Definition of contraption

contraption

/kənˈtræp.ʃən/
con · trap · tion
Plural:contraptions
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contraption Lexical Profile

contraption Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A mechanical device or gadget, especially one that appears strange, overly complicated, or makeshift.

Example

"The inventor spent months in his garage building a noisy contraption designed to sort recyclables automatically."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for contraption

• Rhymes for contraption

• Nearby Words

contrail
contralto
contraplex
contraption
contrarian
contrarianism
contrarily

Word Origin & Etymology

Originating in early 19th-century British regional dialects, the word is likely a blend of 'contrivance', 'trap', and 'deception'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Contraption. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/contraption
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