a device or machine that looks awkward or old-fashioned, especially one that you do not know how to use: strange contraption What's that strange contraption in the garage?

Synonymous with both gadget and gizmo, and widget too, in referring to mechanical and electronic devices, contraption is also one of a raft of terms people reach for when talking about various human-made bits and bobs, whether mechanical or not. (It's thought to have possibly been formed as a blend of contrivance, trap, and invention.)

Phonetic (Standard)IPA noun a mechanical contrivance; gadget; device. contraption / kənˈtræpʃən / noun informal. a device or contrivance, esp one considered strange, unnecessarily intricate, or improvised