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
As with Jakucionis, Larsson could be a key component amid depleted Heat depth with an Antetokounmpo deal — or the Heat might have to watch his development from afar, if dealt in an Antetokounmpo deal. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 21 June 2026 Have the belt system inspected soon because if the serpentine belt fails completely, important engine components may stop working and engine damage could occur. John Paul Senior Manager Public Affairs and Traffic Safety Aaa Northeast, Hartford Courant, 20 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
  • There's so many elements to that.
    Lauryn Overhultz, FOXNews.com, 18 June 2026
  • Historic elements of the former hotel remain today, including a grand piano and white stone, spiral staircase that rises up to the second-floor banquet rooms.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 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
  • There are plenty of other factors that go into fostering belief in a team.
    Rustin Dodd, New York Times, 17 June 2026
  • The testing looked at form factors, creatine per serving, percent creatine, creatinine levels and heavy metals.
    Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 16 June 2026
Adjective
  • In most other competitions, clubs establish individual relationships with manufacturers.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 16 June 2026
  • There are individual media rooms and, of course, a stage for the news conferences that will take place after the team trains at Swope Soccer Village.
    Pete Grathoff June 14, Kansas City Star, 15 June 2026
Noun
  • Warmer waters and temperatures One of the ingredients of El Niño is triggered when the trade winds in the Pacific Ocean — winds that reliably blow from east to west — weaken.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 15 June 2026
  • The S'mores Company creates fun and easy s'mores supplies -- stainless steel telescoping roasting sticks with glow-in-the-dark designs, portable soy wax campfires and cooler caddies with organizer trays that keep ingredients organized.
    ABC News, ABC News, 15 June 2026
Adjective
  • The world’s second largest economy has also weathered the historic energy crunch triggered by the conflict better than many of its neighbors – in particular due to its copious strategic oil reserves and embrace of green tech and electric vehicles.
    Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 20 June 2026
  • In particular Ben Rice, who’s off to a breakthrough season, and 38-year-old Paul Goldschmidt, who the Yankees allowed to sit out there as a free agent most of the winter until re-signing him right before spring training for what is now looking as the bargain of the offseason at $4 million.
    Bill Madden, New York Daily News, 20 June 2026
Noun
  • Elye Wahi remains an important member of the Ivory Coast national team.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 19 June 2026
  • On Wednesday, Air Force officials identified the eight-member crew on board, which included flight test engineers, pilots, two Boeing contractors and multiple members of the 419th Flight Test Squadron.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 22 Jun. 2026.

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