element

Main Entry:: el·e·ment
Pronunciation:: \ˈe-lə-mənt\
Function:: noun
Etymology:: Middle English, from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French, from Latin elementum
Date:: 13th century

1 a: any of the four substances air, water, fire, and earth formerly believed to compose the physical universe bplural : weather conditions ; especially : violent or severe weather <battling the elements> c: the state or sphere natural or suited to a person or thing <at school she was in her element>2: a constituent part: as aplural : the simplest principles of a subject of study : rudiments b (1): a part of a geometric magnitude <an infinitesimal element of volume> (2): a generator of a geometric figure ; also : a line or line segment contained in the surface of a cone or cylinder (3): a basic member of a mathematical or logical class or set (4): one of the individual entries in a mathematical matrix or determinant c: a distinct group within a larger group or community <the criminal element in the city> d (1): one of the necessary data or values on which calculations or conclusions are based (2): one of the factors determining the outcome of a process e: any of the fundamental substances that consist of atoms of only one kind and that singly or in combination constitute all matter f: a distinct part of a composite device g: a subdivision of a military unit 3plural : the bread and wine used in the Eucharist

synonyms element , component , constituent , ingredient mean one of the parts of a compound or complex whole. element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity <the basic elements of geometry>. component and constituent may designate any of the substances (whether elements or compounds) or the qualities that enter into the makeup of a complex product; component stresses its separate entity or distinguishable character <the components of a stereo system>. constituent stresses its essential and formative character <the constituents of a chemical compound>. ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture <the ingredients of a cocktail>.

[element table]

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