ingredient

noun

in·​gre·​di·​ent in-ˈgrē-dē-ənt 

: something that enters into a compound or is a component part of any combination or mixture : constituent

ingredient adjective

Synonyms of ingredient

• component
• factor
• element
• member

Choose the Right Synonym for ingredient

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

Examples of ingredient in a Sentence

He uses only the finest ingredients in his cooking.

the ingredients of a salad

the ingredients in the soap

Honesty is an essential ingredient of a successful marriage.

The show has all the ingredients needed to attract a large audience.

Recent Examples on the Web

Sulfur is one of only six elements essential to life on Earth and may have been a critical ingredient in the earliest life on Earth, providing vital fuel to ancient microbes, according to Sara Russell, a professor of planetary sciences at the Natural History Museum in London. —Jacopo Prisco, CNN Money, 30 Jan. 2026

In addition to imparting a fuller appearance almost instantly, the formula contains ingredients known to strengthen breakage-prone strands, ultimately allowing hair to grow to new lengths and reach its healthiest, bounciest potential. —Sophie Wirt, InStyle, 30 Jan. 2026

Drinking coffee black or with minimal additional ingredients may be the healthiest option. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 30 Jan. 2026

Dining venues source local, seasonal ingredients; all kitchen waste is composted or recycled. —Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin ingredient-, ingrediens, present participle of ingredi to go into, from in- + gradi to go — more at grade entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ingredient

• expedient
• obedient
• disobedient
• inexpedient

Kids Definition

ingredient

noun

in·​gre·​di·​ent in-ˈgrēd-ē-ənt 

: one of the substances that make up a mixture

ingredients of a salad

Medical Definition

ingredient

noun

in·​gre·​di·​ent in-ˈgrēd-ē-ənt 

: something that enters into a compound or is a component part of any combination or mixture

formula which will have just about the same ingredients as mother's milk

—Morris Fishbein

ingredient adjective