Heath Robinson

/ ˈrɒbɪnsən /

adjective

1. (of a mechanical device) absurdly complicated in design and having a simple function

Word History and Origins

Origin of Heath Robinson¹

C20: named after William Heath Robinson (1872–1944), British cartoonist

Example Sentences

Not satisfied with the condition of the road as it was, they sent forth this "Heath Robinson" mechanism to improve it.

From Project Gutenberg

They bring troops up to within 20 miles of Heath Robinson, who fires off his gun every half hour.

From Project Gutenberg