Crossword Genius

Odd mechanical contrivance (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

eccentric

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This might be a double definition.

'odd' is the first definition.
(both can mean unusual)

'mechanical contrivance' is the second definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I can't understand how one could define the other.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for eccentric that I've seen before include "off the wall" , "Somewhat peculiar" , "Odd person is off-centre" , "not moving in proper circles?" , "Odd - nuts" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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