Rube Goldberg
noun
A complex device or machine that performs a task in a complicated way when it could be done much simpler.
He built a Rube Goldberg machine to pour his morning coffee.
Often appears as...
- rube goldberg machine
- rube goldberg device
adjective
Pertaining to or reminiscent of a type of device or machine that is unnecessarily complicated in design or function.
His Rube Goldberg approach to problem-solving often took longer but was always interesting to watch.
Often appears as...
- rube goldberg design
- rube goldberg approach
noun
A complex device or machine that performs a task in a complicated way when it could be done much simpler.
He built a Rube Goldberg machine to pour his morning coffee.
Often appears as...
- rube goldberg machine
- rube goldberg device
adjective
Pertaining to or reminiscent of a type of device or machine that is unnecessarily complicated in design or function.
His Rube Goldberg approach to problem-solving often took longer but was always interesting to watch.
Often appears as...
- rube goldberg design
- rube goldberg approach
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Inventive Complexity
Represents engineering creativity but also inefficiency, highlighting the humorous aspect of overcomplication.
The science fair was full of Rube Goldberg machines, each more whimsically complex than the last.
Pro Tip 2/3Over-Engineering
Use it to describe something engineered to a degree that exceeds practical needs, often humorously.
I didn't need a Rube Goldberg machine just to flip a pancake.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Reference
Originates from American cartoonist Rube Goldberg, who drew intricate machines; knowing this helps in understanding the term's usage.
He was like Rube Goldberg reincarnated the way he solved problems.
Pro Tip 1/3Inventive Complexity
Represents engineering creativity but also inefficiency, highlighting the humorous aspect of overcomplication.
The science fair was full of Rube Goldberg machines, each more whimsically complex than the last.
Pro Tip 2/3Over-Engineering
Use it to describe something engineered to a degree that exceeds practical needs, often humorously.
I didn't need a Rube Goldberg machine just to flip a pancake.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Reference
Originates from American cartoonist Rube Goldberg, who drew intricate machines; knowing this helps in understanding the term's usage.
He was like Rube Goldberg reincarnated the way he solved problems.
Pro Tip 1/3Inventive Complexity
Represents engineering creativity but also inefficiency, highlighting the humorous aspect of overcomplication.
The science fair was full of Rube Goldberg machines, each more whimsically complex than the last.
Pro Tip 2/3Over-Engineering
Use it to describe something engineered to a degree that exceeds practical needs, often humorously.
I didn't need a Rube Goldberg machine just to flip a pancake.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Reference
Originates from American cartoonist Rube Goldberg, who drew intricate machines; knowing this helps in understanding the term's usage.
He was like Rube Goldberg reincarnated the way he solved problems.
Never forget "Rube Goldberg"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension