So plain a proposition . . . was not likely to be
contravened. --Southey.
2. To violate; to nullify; to be inconsistent with; as, to
contravene a law.
Laws that place the subjects in such a state
contravene the first principles of the compact of
authority. --Johnson.
Syn: To contradict; set aside; nullify; defeat; cross;
obstruct; baffle; thwart.