Contraptions: meaning, definitions and examples

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contraptions

[kənˈtræpʃən ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

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

apparatus, device, gadget.

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. He's always coming up with new contraptions in his garage. What is that strange contraption supposed to do?
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. His desk is cluttered with all sorts of gadgets. This kitchen gadget makes cutting vegetables so much easier.
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. She bought a device that helps her track her fitness progress. The engineers are testing a new safety device for cars.
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. The lab's new apparatus allows for more precise measurements. They demonstrated the apparatus used in the experiment.

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.

Pop Culture

In cartoons and movies, contraptions often take center stage in comedic inventions, leading to humorous mishaps.
Tim Burton’s 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.

Translations

Translations of the word "contraptions" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dispositivos

🇮🇳 यंत्र

🇩🇪 Geräte

Apparate
Maschinen

🇮🇩 alat

🇺🇦 пристрої

🇵🇱 urządzenia

🇯🇵 装置

🇫🇷 dispositifs

🇪🇸 dispositivos

🇹🇷 cihazlar

🇰🇷 장치

🇸🇦 أجهزة

🇨🇿 zařízení

🇸🇰 zariadenia

🇨🇳 装置

🇸🇮 naprave

🇮🇸 tæki

🇰🇿 құрылғылар

🇬🇪 მექანიზმები

🇦🇿 cihazlar

🇲🇽 dispositivos

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
...