Synonyms of ingredient

ingredient

noun

in-ˈgrē-dē-ənt 

as in component

one of the parts that make up a whole

one of the ingredients in the salad dressing is sugar

Synonyms & Similar Words

• component
• factor
• element
• member
• constituent
• basis
• characteristic
• item
• building block
• feature
• aspect
• trait
• section
• particular
• portion
• detail
• piece
• segment
• facet
• part and parcel
• fragment
• sector
• particle
• partition
• division
• point
• subcomponent

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• whole
• compound
• mass
• composite
• aggregate
• total
• sum
• combination
• mixture
• mix
• entirety
• totality
• summation
• blend
• amalgam
• admixture
• amalgamation
• intermixture

Synonym Chooser

How is the word ingredient distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of ingredient are component, constituent, and element. While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture.

the ingredients of a cocktail

How do component and constituent relate to one another, in the sense of ingredient?

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

Where would constituent be a reasonable alternative to ingredient?

The synonyms constituent and ingredient are sometimes interchangeable, but constituent stresses its essential and formative character.

the constituents of a chemical compound

When might element be a better fit than ingredient?

In some situations, the words element and ingredient are roughly equivalent. However, element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity.

the basic elements of geometry

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of ingredient

In a medium saucepan heat and stir next five ingredients (through salt) just until warm (120°F to 130°F) and butter almost melts. —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Oct. 2025

The mascara comes with a flexible brush that bends to extend your lashes, and it’s formulated with bamboo extract and other ingredients that volumize and hydrate your lashes. —Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 8 Oct. 2025

The ultra-hydrating formula contains natural ingredients like avocado oil and vitamin E, which are moisturizing superstars. —Gina Vaynshteyn, StyleCaster, 8 Oct. 2025

The stainless steel Turbo Beaters are designed to take on heavy, dense ingredients, while the pro whisk is perfect for creating fluffy toppings and desserts. —Mark Marino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 8 Oct. 2025