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
But in 1991, as the Iron Curtain crumbled, Yugoslavia’s six constituent states—Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia, Slovenia, Macedonia, and Montenegro—tumbled toward war. Sean Williams, Outside, 27 Oct. 2025 Representatives for East San Jose noted the importance of preserving healthcare for their constituents. Devan Patel, Mercury News, 23 Oct. 2025
Adjective
The position is a study in multitasking, and Rivas has a hand in everything from prepping for markups, devising questions for hearings and meeting with policy experts in Washington and constituent groups in Aguilar’s Southern California district. Mike Lillis, The Hill, 18 Sep. 2025 Exposure to the alkaline solution causes pollen’s constituent polymers to become more hydrophilic, or water-loving, so depending on the conditions, the gel will swell or shrink due to the absorption or expulsion of water, explains Ibrahim. Sandy Ong, JSTOR Daily, 11 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for constituent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constituent
Noun
  • The Institute views Louisville as an Urban Laboratory and the organization’s researchers partner with community members and policy makers with an eye toward building healthier cities.
    Maggie Menderski, Louisville Courier Journal, 26 Oct. 2025
  • Head over to Amazon to check out all of the Prime member deals for yourself, and keep scrolling for more exclusive savings on home essentials.
    Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 25 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
  • Schulman said the company will continue to rely on its better-for-you branding of fresh ingredients and more premium proteins that some diners may have to pay a couple extra dollars for.
    Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Made with plush ingredients like fleece, flannel, or cotton, electric blankets are just like regular throws but with wires woven into the fabric that generate heat.
    Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 5 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • The $155,000 figure was within a range covered by insurance, and FBI investigators found that no individual donor funds were diverted before they were deposited into the Bright Futures Fund, Johnston wrote.
    Nathan Pilling, Kansas City Star, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Another initiative underway is using AI to support the individual growth of our employees.
    Kelly Jones, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • The neutral tones and organic elements of the hotel’s 349 rooms and suites soothe the spirit and mirror the otherworldly atmosphere of the Riviera Maya.
    Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Depending on which elements are involved, airglow can appear in subtle shades of green, red or orange.
    Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, Space.com, 5 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Nonpartisan experts who have studied the subject believe the increasing cost of upgrading the grid, with new transmission lines or other facilities, is the single factor most responsible for rate increases.
    Tom Rogers, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Numerous factors hurt Detroit over many years, including a shrinking tax base, high unemployment and poverty, and rising health care and pension costs for city employees.
    Nathaniel Meyersohn, CNN Money, 5 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Constituent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constituent. Accessed 8 Nov. 2025.

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