Contraptions Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ง
contraptions
[kษnหtrรฆpสษn ]
Definition
mechanical devices
Contraptions are mechanical devices or gadgets, often homemade or makeshift in nature. They are usually complex or intricate in design, serving a specific purpose or function.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
contraptions |
This word is used informally and often refers to unusual or complicated devices, sometimes with a sense of curiosity or humor.
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gadget |
This word has an informal tone and is often used to refer to small, innovative, or novel pieces of technology, especially those intended for personal or home use.
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device |
This is a general term for any machine or tool designed for a specific purpose. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.
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apparatus |
This term is more formal and is often used to describe a complex piece of equipment or machinery, especially in scientific, technical, or industrial contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- They used various contraptions to fix the broken car engine.
- She built a contraption out of spare parts to water the plants automatically.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In cartoons and movies, contraptions often take center stage in comedic inventions, leading to humorous mishaps.
- Tim Burtonโs film 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' features many whimsical contraptions that add to the film's quirky style.
- The term gained a playful connotation through works like 'Rube Goldberg' machines, which illustrate complex processes in simple ways.
Science and Invention
- Many household gadgets today started as simple contraptions, inspiring future inventions that revolutionized daily life.
- The concept of contraptions is crucial in engineering as they encourage innovative problem-solving techniques.
- Famous inventors like Leonardo da Vinci created sketches of complicated contraptions long before modern engineering was established.
Literature
- Contraptions often appear in children's books, symbolizing creativity and the joy of invention, like in Roald Dahl's 'George's Marvellous Medicine'.
- Writers have used the idea of contraptions to explore themes of imagination versus practicality in novels, showcasing human curiosity.
- In science fiction, contraptions can be a way to portray advanced technology or the consequences of untested inventions and ideas.
Psychology
- The fascination with contraptions can reflect human ingenuity and the desire to solve problems in unexpected ways.
- Research shows that individuals who engage with creative technologies feel a stronger connection to their innovative abilities.
- Playing with complex devices or building kits can enhance cognitive skills, making the term resonate in educational settings.
Origin of 'contraptions'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'contraption' likely comes from the word 'contrive', which means to create or invent, emphasizing creativity.
- It became popular in the 19th century, often used to describe unusual or makeshift inventions.
- Many believe it may be a blend of 'contraption' and 'trap', hinting at both function and complexity.
The word 'contraption' originated in the late 19th century as a blend of 'contrive' and 'invention'. It reflects the creativity and innovation in designing mechanical devices during that era. Contraptions have been a symbol of human ingenuity in solving practical problems through inventive solutions.
Word Frequency Rank
This word's position of #34,343 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.
- ...
- 34340 rusticated
- 34341 stinky
- 34342 predetermination
- 34343 contraptions
- 34344 profaneness
- 34345 loneliest
- 34346 militating
- ...