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

• building block
• component
• constituent
• element
• factor
• 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

Ketchup is also a key ingredient for topping our meatloaf and flavoring our baked beans. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 21 Apr. 2025

The key ingredients to effective just-in-time inclusion efforts are the right people, at the right time, with the right message, and from the right messenger. —Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025

Food, of course, is as important as any medical procedure; your custom nutrition plan will be fueled by biodynamic and sustainable organic ingredients, as well as vegetables plucked right from the property’s garden. —Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 18 Apr. 2025

The restaurant uses fresh ingredients sourced from the on-site farm; the house lager is brewed using mineral water from the hot springs. —Maya Kachroo-Levine, Travel + Leisure, 18 Apr. 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