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 iron in lentils can help maintain healthy energy levels by being a component of hemoglobin in red blood cells, which delivers oxygen throughout the body and reduces fatigue. — Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 2 Nov. 2026 With so few components to play with, every one of them has to to do heavy lifting. — Candy Hom, AJC.com, 2 Nov. 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
  • Japanese sweet potatoes have a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the spicy, crunchy elements of chaat.
    — Rachel Gurjar, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 Nov. 2026
  • The family spent approximately $1,500 on dirt and ballfield materials and another $500 on indoor decorations, bringing the total for those elements to around $2,000.
    — Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 1 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • The Alderman makes the final call on which projects are approved and prioritized, based on constituent feedback and need.
    — Sabrina Franza, CBS News, 22 Oct. 2026
  • Now fighting his own deportation, Mo helped connect Stefani with the Chinese American constituency that makes up a large part of her district, and got into the nitty-gritty with constituent services, according to his colleagues.
    — Andrew Graham, Sacbee.com, 5 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • The survey explores the factors that trigger people to go for outdoor comfort.
    — Gagandeep Singh, Sacbee.com, 24 Oct. 2026
  • The duration depends on factors including the reason for treatment and whether a patient has had previous clots, Abou-Ismail added.
    — Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 24 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The number of tasks completed, time required for individual activities, frequency of human intervention, and ability to recover from unsuccessful attempts would provide useful measures of their effectiveness.
    — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 2 Nov. 2026
  • McKenzie and his outfit are usually conversing with agents, advisors, business and wealth managers about who may have capital needs as opposed to individual athletes themselves.
    — Justin Birnbaum, Sportico.com, 2 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • The cabinetry, which is of premium quality and is exceptionally attractive, offers generous storage space for cooking ingredients and the chef’s tools and utensils.
    — James Alexander, Hartford Courant, 1 Nov. 2026
  • Mushrooms are an underrated ingredient in Indian cooking, and this creamy masala puts the earthy veg front and center.
    — Rachel Gurjar, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • Determining whether a particular formation protocol will maintain long-term battery performance can require months or years of testing.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 29 Oct. 2026
  • Fortunately, Apple says customers affected by this particular display issue should contact AppleCare for a replacement.
    — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 29 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Vang, 41, is a progressive member of the Sacramento City Council.
    — Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 30 Oct. 2026
  • Authorities withheld the person’s identity pending notification of family members.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 30 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 3 Nov. 2026.

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