contraption

/kənˈtræpʃn/ (bre, ipa) · /kənˈtræpʃn/ (ame, ipa) · /kən-ˈtrap-shən/ (ame, mw)

contraption — noun

  • contraptionsingular
  • contraptionsplural

1. an object built from several parts in a clumsy or unusual way, often leaving you

1.名詞C1
釋義

an object built from several parts in a clumsy or unusual way, often leaving you unsure what it does or how to operate it

例句

Kenji wheeled a noisy contraption into the garage to sharpen old skates.

contraption + into + place for a practical job

At the night market, Marta bought a folding contraption for washing salad leaves.

collocation: folding contraption

同義詞
  • device

    broader and more neutral; it does not imply an awkward or puzzling design

  • gadget

    usually smaller and often clever or convenient, rather than clumsy-looking

  • machine

    more general and functional; it can sound technical without the humorous tone

用法筆記

Often carries a mildly humorous tone and suggests the object looks homemade, awkward, or harder to use than a normal machine. It is most natural for devices with visible parts such as wheels, pipes, wires, or handles.