contrivance etymology

Etymology:

  • Latin: "contrivare," meaning "to devise with skill"
  • The Latin "con-" (together) combines with "tres" (three) to imply "to weave or braid together" (referring to the intricate planning involved).

Meaning:

A contrivance is an object, plan, or scheme that is cleverly or artificially constructed to achieve a specific purpose. It often implies a sense of cleverness, ingenuity, or even deception.

Origin:

The term "contrive" was first used in English in the mid-16th century. It originated from the Latin word "contrivare," which was used to describe skilled planning or crafting. The word initially referred to the intricate weaving together of threads or materials, but over time its meaning expanded to include any carefully devised plan or invention.

Usage:

"Contrivance" is commonly used in the following contexts:

  • Clever devices or inventions: "The inventor had created a remarkable contrivance that could harness the power of the wind."
  • Intricate plans or schemes: "The spies devised a cunning contrivance to infiltrate the enemy base."
  • Artificial or forced situations: "The entire encounter felt like an awkward contrivance, designed to create drama."
  • Deceitful or manipulative actions: "He was a master of intrigue, using intricate contrivances to deceive his opponents."

contrivance relate terms

  • contrive

    Etymology Middle English contrive from Anglo French contriver from Latin contrōvār

  • briar

    Etymology The word briar derives from the Old English word brēr which is likely re

  • friar

    Etymology The word friar comes from the Old French word frere which is derived from

  • choir

    Etymology The word choir comes from the Old French word cuer which in turn comes fro

  • convenience

    Etymology The word convenience is derived from late Middle English conveniens aroun

  • gadget

    Etymology The word gadget is believed to have originated in the 19th century Its exact

  • stratagem

    Etymology Latin stratēgēma from Greek στρατήγημα stratēgēma from σ

  • machination

    Etymology The word machination has its roots in Latin Machina a machine device

  • trap

    Etymology The word trap has origins in several languages Old English træppe Midd

  • yoke

    Etymology Middle English as a noun via Anglo French from Latin jugum yoke weight

  • arrangement

    Etymology Old French arangement Latin ad to rangere to set in order Mea

  • dodge

    Etymology The word dodge has its origins in the Middle English word doggen meaning

  • gimbal

    Etymology The word gimbal derives from the Middle French guimbal which in turn like