constituent 1 of 2

constituent

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adjective

Synonym Chooser

How is the word constituent distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of constituent are component, element, and ingredient. While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," constituent stresses its essential and formative character.

the constituents of a chemical compound

How are the words component and constituent related?

Both 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

When is it sensible to use element instead of constituent?

While the synonyms element and constituent are close in meaning, element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity.

the basic elements of geometry

When is ingredient a more appropriate choice than constituent?

Although the words ingredient and constituent have much in common, ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture.

the ingredients of a cocktail

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of constituent
Noun
That electricity is used to power a pair of proton-exchange-membrane (PEM) electrolyzers that split the surrounding seawater into its constituent components of oxygen and hydrogen. New Atlas, 17 July 2025 By investing strategically in technology, nonprofits and higher education institutions can strengthen operations, deepen constituent relationships and future-proof their missions. Tal Frankfurt, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
Adjective
The eight biggest constituents of the S&P 500—which collectively represent about a third of this index’s weighting—are all heavily involved in the artificial intelligence race. Tiz Gambacorta, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025 If your constituents ask you to take a stand, and the state prohibits you from doing so, that's essentially throwing the First Amendment out. Angele Latham, Nashville Tennessean, 9 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for constituent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constituent
Noun
  • In addition to Chinese funding, some American environmental charities even enlist former members of the Chinese government in senior leadership positions.
    Robert Schmad, The Washington Examiner, 7 Sep. 2025
  • Fans went wild when the original members of Van Halen walked the VMAs stage to present an award in 1996, appearing together for the first time in more than 11 years.
    Kate Hogan, PEOPLE, 7 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The layout by Oakland design studio Open Daily is clean; even more complicated recipes, like Henry Hsu’s multi-component cornerstone rice cakes, are easy to follow.
    Soleil Ho, SFChronicle.com, 9 Nov. 2020
  • By the '70s, motorists could buy component parts to convert older models into unique classics.
    Dalvin Brown, USA TODAY, 21 Oct. 2019
Noun
  • Experts say these ingredients contain lots of immune-boosting nutrients, like vitamin C, probiotics, and antioxidants.
    Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 10 Sep. 2025
  • Move the ingredients to the hole and toss to cover them with the sauce.
    Linda Gassenheimer, Boston Herald, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Both levels are far above EU rules demanding that individual members’ deficits should not exceed 3% of GDP, while their public debt should not surpass 60% of economic output.
    Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 10 Sep. 2025
  • Now, as legal attacks against telehealth providers put shield laws to the test, some states have moved to strengthen the laws by allowing providers to prescribe anonymously, reducing their risk of legal or individual harassment.
    Patrick Adams, NPR, 10 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The high-energy track, which blends old school hip-hop vibes with rock elements, marks the first time a virtual group has ever produced a song and direct choreography for an audition survival series.
    Laura Sirikul, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Other defensive elements included an Italian AWACS surveillance aircraft, a NATO refueling tanker, and a German Patriot air defense system, the New York Times reported.
    George Petras, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Also, unfavorable factors are the extension price tag that can top tens of billions of dollars annually, and eligibility that includes those making 400% the poverty rate.
    Ramsey Touchberry, The Washington Examiner, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Materazzo said the company engaged in extensive research ahead of the rollout, finding a common theme of uncertainty and anxiety from consumers due to a range of factors, including the political climate and the economy.
    Laya Neelakandan, CNBC, 10 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Constituent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constituent. Accessed 14 Sep. 2025.

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