To contrive means to create or arrange something cleverly, often using whatever materials or methods you have available. When you contrive a solution to a problem, you figure out a way to make something work, even if it's not the obvious or perfect way.

A student might contrive an excuse for being late to class, inventing a creative story that sounds believable. An inventor might contrive a new device by combining everyday objects in an unexpected way. Robinson Crusoe, stranded on his island, had to contrive tools, shelter, and ways to survive using only what he could find.

The word often suggests ingenuity and resourcefulness, but it can also hint at something being artificial or forced. A contrived plot twist in a story feels unnatural, like the author worked too hard to surprise readers. When someone's smile seems contrived, it looks fake rather than genuine.

A contrivance is something that's been contrived: either a clever invention or device, or something that feels too planned and artificial. The phrase “by contrivance” means through clever planning or scheming. When you contrive something, you're using your wits to make something happen, for better or worse.