contrivance
[noun]
Synonyms:
- device, apparatus, appliance, contraption, gadget, implement, instrument, invention, machine, mechanism
- plan, intrigue, machination, plot, ruse, scheme, stratagem, trick

[TahlilGaran] English Synonym Dictionary ▲

con‧triv‧ance /kənˈtraɪvəns/ noun formal

1. [countable] something that is artificial or does not seem natural, but that helps something else to happen – usually used to show disapproval:
A ridiculous series of plot contrivances moves the film along.

2. [uncountable and countable] a plan or trick to make something happen or get something for yourself, or the practice of doing this:
Harriet’s matchmaking contrivances

3. [countable] a machine or piece of equipment that has been made for a special purpose:
a steam-driven contrivance used in 19th century factories

[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲