component 1 of 2

Definition of componentnext

component

2 of 2

adjective

Synonym Chooser

How is the word component distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of component are constituent, element, and ingredient. While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," 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

In what contexts can constituent take the place of component?

While in some cases nearly identical to component, constituent stresses its essential and formative character.

the constituents of a chemical compound

When is element a more appropriate choice than component?

While the synonyms element and component are close in meaning, element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity.

the basic elements of geometry

When is it sensible to use ingredient instead of component?

Although the words ingredient and component have much in common, ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture.

the ingredients of a cocktail

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of component
Noun
O’Neal thought there could be another component. Aneri Pattani, USA Today, 6 June 2026 When one of those components becomes blocked, worn out, or damaged, excess friction and heat can develop, and a burning odor can be released. Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 5 June 2026
Adjective
The layout by Oakland design studio Open Daily is clean; even more complicated recipes, like Henry Hsu’s multi-component cornerstone rice cakes, are easy to follow. Soleil Ho, SFChronicle.com, 9 Nov. 2020 By the '70s, motorists could buy component parts to convert older models into unique classics. Dalvin Brown, USA TODAY, 21 Oct. 2019 See All Example Sentences for component
Recent Examples of Synonyms for component
Noun
  • Sabalenka, 28, at first seemed to cope well with the elements, showing signs of mild annoyance at 5-3 in the first set.
    Matthew Futterman, New York Times, 3 June 2026
  • At the time, NASA was counting on the Falcon 9 to return its capability to launch humans, and today, NASA is counting on New Glenn as a key element of its lunar ambitions.
    Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 3 June 2026
Adjective
  • This was still a season when every constituent part of the club — ownership, board, managers, players, fans — at times felt at odds with the other.
    Jack Pitt-Brooke, New York Times, 25 May 2026
  • With midterm elections six months out, members of Congress in persuadable districts are more responsive to constituent pressure than at any other point in the legislative cycle.
    Geri Stengel, Forbes.com, 22 May 2026
Noun
  • Inflation concerns Another factor that could push the RBI in favour of a rate cut is the risk of higher inflation.
    Sri Jegarajah,Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 3 June 2026
  • Much of Microsoft’s messaging around AI is speculative and self-serving, but the company rightly points out that new computing form factors have always required specialization, and that process is complex and expensive.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 2 June 2026
Adjective
  • The height of neoliberalism brought about an almost universal shift in art toward the global, away from the specifics of individual places, their histories, people, and physical locations.
    Katy Siegel, Artforum, 2 June 2026
  • These can be booked as individual rooms or entire units for large groups or those who want maximum privacy.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026
Noun
  • The kitchen teams source 70% of their ingredients from local purveyors, reducing the hotel’s carbon footprint, too.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026
  • When the skin barrier is healthy, the skin looks calmer, smoother, more luminous and more tolerant of active ingredients, Devgan tells me.
    Rachel Burchfield, Forbes.com, 1 June 2026
Adjective
  • In the Appalachian mountains, this form took particular root.
    Arati Menon, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 June 2026
  • Signing bonuses, in particular, are often prorated over multiple years for salary cap purposes, which is why the timing of a trade can matter.
    Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 6 June 2026
Noun
  • Washington — The House approved an effort on Thursday to send fresh assistance to Ukraine after a few Republican members joined with Democrats to force a vote on the issue.
    Caitlin Yilek, CBS News, 5 June 2026
  • With Fairfield High’s graduation set to be held Friday, community members started a petition calling for it to be moved to a new location.
    Seamus Bozeman Follow, Los Angeles Times, 5 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 8 Jun. 2026.

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