constituent 1 of 2

constituent

2 of 2

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
Over the next several years, Gorbachev pursued a sweeping series of economic and political changes that allowed for quasi-private businesses and greater autonomy for the 15 constituent Soviet republics, Russia included. Celeste A. Wallander, Foreign Affairs, 9 Sep. 2025 The constituent particles would have to have very large masses. Robert Lea, Space.com, 25 Aug. 2025
Adjective
It is used by my constituents and is an important part of the local community. Laura Sharman, CNN Money, 5 Oct. 2025 Yes, those could affect your constituents. ABC News, 5 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for constituent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constituent
Noun
  • Miami philanthropists Trish and Dan Bell, who have given millions to different organizations across South Florida, are longtime supporters of the Foundation and are members of the Golden Angel Society, the Foundation’s premier giving group.
    Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 12 Oct. 2025
  • The money could not be paid to a member of one’s family, including in-laws.
    Kate Wolffe, Sacbee.com, 12 Oct. 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
  • Tou can even use it on the grill for recipes like kabobs and jalapeno poppers without losing any ingredients through the grates.
    Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 9 Oct. 2025
  • New & Noteworthy Hint's Winter Variety Pack captures the chilly, lighthearted spirit with cheerful flavors and clean ingredients.
    Adam Mills, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Behaviours are measured through 360-degree reviews and employee surveys, where data can be broken down by function to analyze the individual impact of leaders.
    Jessica Coacci, Fortune, 9 Oct. 2025
  • Every individual trailer also has a bunch of goodies in addition to the rehearsal snacks.
    Caroline Blair, PEOPLE, 8 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • This matters not least because high levels of trust in leadership are rewarded with higher levels of discretionary effort and agility, key elements of success for any business.
    Jessica Coacci, Fortune, 9 Oct. 2025
  • The film weaves together comedic and dramatic elements while examining the tension between personal identity and familial expectations.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 8 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The factors that influence GDP growth are labor and productivity, and the Gulf already has an edge in finding workers — both expats and a young local population.
    Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 9 Oct. 2025
  • Work life balance is the third factor.
    Adam Gale, Fortune, 9 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

More from Merriam-Webster on constituent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!