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What exactly is a contraption?
In the words of one Little Mermaid, “I’ve got gadgets and gizmos a-plenty.” It would have been on-theme (though perhaps a bit clunky) for the aquatic princess to include in her siren song the word contraption. Synonymous with both gadget and gizmo, and widget too, in referring to mechanical and electronic devices, contraption is also one of a raft of terms people reach for when talking about various human-made bits and bobs, whether mechanical or not. (It's thought to have possibly been formed as a blend of contrivance, trap, and invention.) Want more thingamabob words? Try doohickey, thingamajig, dingus, or doodad.
Examples of contraption in a Sentence
Jessie Schiewe, Los Angeles Times, 23 May 2025
The 2-story contraption is similar to machines that weigh potato chips or pet food, but more sensitive, according to Diltz.
—Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 22 May 2025
For apartment dwellers and people who prefer not to dangle midair, this clever contraption looks like a window-cleaning game changer.
—The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 May 2025
The contraption is up for pre-order now at US$469, with shipping expected to start soon.
—Paul Ridden
may 11, New Atlas, 11 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for contraption
Cite this Entry
“Contraption.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/contraption. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.
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contraption
noun
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