Contraption

A contraption is an elaborate device or gadget, often invented for a specific purpose that may appear unusual or impractical in its design. These devices can vary in complexity and functionality, and they may be created from a combination of everyday materials or technologies. The term often carries a connotation of ingenuity or eccentricity, suggesting that while the contraption may solve a problem, it might do so in a roundabout or unexpected way.

Contraption meaning with examples

• When we entered the basement, we were greeted by a bizarre contraption made of old bicycle parts and spare wood. My uncle, a tinkerer at heart, had transformed these discarded items into a working catapult for his garden. He demonstrated how it could launch tomatoes into a designated area, and although it seemed ridiculous, it sparked laughter among family members, showcasing his unique blend of creativity and practicality.
• In the science fair, Mia showcased her latest invention: a contraption designed to water plants automatically. Using an old soda bottle, plastic tubing, and a small solar panel, she had built a system that would distribute moisture evenly to her potted plants. The simplicity of her design was surprising, but the effectiveness won her the first prize and the admiration of her peers, proving that sometimes the simplest contraptions are the most innovative.
• As the documentary filmmaker traveled through the remote village, he stumbled upon an extraordinary contraption made of scrap metal and old tires. The villagers had ingeniously created a wind turbine that provided them with electricity. Despite its rough appearance, it generated enough power to light up homes and charge batteries, illustrating the amazing resourcefulness of communities when faced with challenges and their ability to turn waste materials into functional technology.
• At the inventor’s workshop, there was a particularly curious contraption that caught my eye. It was a whimsical machine with levers, bells, and spinning wheels all intended to crack open walnuts with minimal effort. Although it required several manual adjustments and was far from efficient, the quirky design and the playful spirit behind its creation made it an entertaining centerpiece, representing the joy of invention despite its impracticality.