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

No disrespect to the freezer aisle, but our favorite veggie burger ideas start with fresh ingredients—not prefab pucks. —Emily Saladino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 May 2025

Users will get a starter pack of five unique ingredient cards to begin the Ingredient Quest experience. —Gabe Hauari, USA Today, 2 May 2025

But our favorite part of this recipe might just be that with only 8 ingredients (including salt and pepper), 15 minutes of hands-on cooking time, and no fancy equipment required, anyone can pull off this recipe. —Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 2 May 2025

Just a couple of spritzes disinfect her hands without drying them out, thanks to moisturizing ingredients like niacinamide and centella asiatica. —Rylee Johnston, Travel + Leisure, 2 May 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