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

• 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

Taken together, these triumphal and tragic elements constitute the ingredients for an epic historical narrative that defies all moralistic categories, a story rooted in the coexistence of grandeur and failure, brilliance and blindness, grace and sin. —Literary Hub, 28 Oct. 2025

The masks use a form of collagen peptides—a buzzy skincare ingredient beloved for its anti-ageing properties as well as hydrating hyaluronic acid and skin barrier supporting niacinamide. —Ellie Davis, Vogue, 28 Oct. 2025

The leaders and their advisers later dined on American rice and beef, cooked with Japanese ingredients, during a working lunch. —Francesca Chambers, USA Today, 28 Oct. 2025

For an extra touch of chocolate flavor, finish the bonbons with a 4-ingredient glaze. —Jenavieve Christensen, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Oct. 2025

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