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

Meanwhile, Swift prefers shadows with creamy textures or hydrating ingredients that won’t dry out mature lids. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 2 May 2025

The cream is formulated with key ingredients such as arctic marine ferment for improving discoloration and texture, milk thistle and bearberry extract for their smoothing benefits, and pullulan for firming and targeting loose and crepey skin. —Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 2 May 2025

With more than 15,000 employees remaining across various U.S. and foreign offices, the FDA’s core responsibilities are reviewing new drugs, medical products and food ingredients as well as inspecting thousands of factories. —Matthew Perrone, Los Angeles Times, 1 May 2025

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