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
The big-screen adaptation of the popular Disney+ show doesn't feature another familiar component of the Star Wars universe — the iconic opening crawl. Emlyn Travis, Entertainment Weekly, 23 May 2026 Players such as Hall and Nikolaj Ehlers add a rush component that the lineup has lacked, Hall on a highly effective second line centered by Logan Stankoven, Ehlers on what could otherwise be an all-defense third line with Jordan Staal and Jordan Martinook. Sean Gentille, New York Times, 23 May 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
  • At the Yale University Art Gallery, which is showing the complete series in the photographer’s largest exhibition yet, the images are hung in tall, orderly grids, like a periodic table of the human elements.
    Max Norman, New Yorker, 21 May 2026
  • On paper, certain design elements shouldn’t make sense, like the vine wallpaper mixed with cloth foliage fabric wall coverings, or the houndstooth wallpaper in a bathroom that’s already an alchemy of half a dozen different tile patterns.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 May 2026
Adjective
  • 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
  • To use it as a fuel, these molecules must be split into their constituent parts.
    Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 3 May 2026
Noun
  • Analysts say a key factor in Adani’s meteoric rise over the years has been his knack for aligning his group’s priorities with those of the Modi government.
    Michael R. Sisak, Los Angeles Times, 19 May 2026
  • Thailand has long struggled with a high rate of deadly transportation accidents, with factors such as speeding, impaired driving and inconsistent traffic law enforcement frequently cited as contributing causes, according to the AFP.
    Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 19 May 2026
Adjective
  • There are both national and individual narratives for an ancient object or work of art.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 19 May 2026
  • Guardian® Disability Insurance Learn More Policy highlights Guardian issues individual long-term disability and group short-term disability insurance.
    Liz Knueven, CNBC, 18 May 2026
Noun
  • Foundayo uses a different active ingredient than Lilly's blockbuster injectables Mounjaro and Zepbound, while Novo's Wegovy pill is essentially an extension of the company's injectable equivalents.
    Elsa Ohlen, CNBC, 18 May 2026
  • Emeril’s websites describes the restaurant today as a refined, modern expression of Chef Emeril’s classics, guided by seasonality, Louisiana ingredients and contemporary technique.
    Noel Burgess, Forbes.com, 18 May 2026
Adjective
  • My husband loves that this particular style is infused with a touch of precious metal to give off a slight metallic sheen.
    Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 24 May 2026
  • Though Export’s radical feminist art grew out of a particular political moment that had pretty much passed by the time Yuskavage began her career, the artists nonetheless share a rabble-rousing sensibility and an obsession with the unnerving visual punch of the female body.
    Naomi Fry, New Yorker, 23 May 2026
Noun
  • Flanked by several clergy members of various denominations, Dolan, 76, thanked his former colleagues, as well as civic and community officials, before praising Jesus Christ for his lengthy career in the church.
    Louis Casiano, FOXNews.com, 15 May 2026
  • The many Luderer family members (Brian has four children and Matt has six daughters) have united to keep the faith.
    Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 15 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 25 May. 2026.

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