English Explanatory Dictionary

contrive

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. To invent by an exercise of ingeniosity; to devise
  2. To invent, to make devices; to form designs especially by improvisation.
  3. To project, cast, or set forth, as in a projection of light.
  4. To spend (time, or a period).

Pronunciation

/kənˈtɹaɪv/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Back ache-contrive.wav

Word forms

contrive contrives contriving contrived

Etymology

From Middle English contreve (“to invent”), from Old French controver (Modern French controuver), from trover (“to find”) (French trouver).

Synonyms

becast cast about plan scheme plot hatch get

Derived words

contrivable contrivance contrived contrivement contriver precontrive recontrive uncontriving
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