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
Aerospace is a very key component. Emily Carmela Nelson, Idaho Statesman, 31 May 2026 But later this year, most likely sometime in the fall, the Stand team plans to add an evening component, transforming the lunch spot into an evening izakaya. Connie Ogle may 30, Miami Herald, 30 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
  • This last element is worth unpacking a bit.
    Ian Mackenzie, Literary Hub, 27 May 2026
  • Diamonds are in my DNA, and unexpected design elements and object detailing are central to my work.
    Thomas Waller, Footwear News, 27 May 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
  • BanksPhotos/Getty Images While saving up a large, five-figure amount of money in the inflationary economic climate of recent years was certainly challenging, savers did have one factor working in their favor.
    Matt Richardson, CBS News, 26 May 2026
  • And there’s been a growing awareness among consumers about skin aging and acne that are linked to internal factors of hormones, strength, stress and metabolism — making ingestible products more effective.
    Kanika Talwar, Footwear News, 26 May 2026
Adjective
  • One of them was to win an NCAA individual golf title.
    Mark Zeigler, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 May 2026
  • That new thing As his predecessor did 135 years ago, Leo warns that individual humans and humanity itself must not be left behind by technological advancements or by new forms of power.
    Nate Anderson, ArsTechnica, 25 May 2026
Noun
  • By pairing two of nature’s most beloved, essential ingredients, each transforms the other to create an experience that has to be tasted to be believed.
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 May 2026
  • Fungicides labeled for powdery mildew include products containing the active ingredients chlorothalonil, myclobutanil, and propiconazole.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 25 May 2026
Adjective
  • Teenagers, in particular, wonder if they’ve been given a road block to future success.
    Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 30 May 2026
  • In particular, chip demand for AI has exploded, supporting both the training of AI models and their deployment across applications.
    Rakesh Kumar, Fortune, 30 May 2026
Noun
  • Sennott, 30, appeared alongside Hacks star Hannah Einbinder, Saturday Night Live cast member Ashley Padilla, Keke Palmer, and Abbott Elementary star Quinta Brunson on The Hollywood Reporter's Comedy Actresses Roundtable.
    Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 29 May 2026
  • The original series took off in popularity during season 5 in 2019, turning cast members such as Higgins, Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury into household names.
    Carolyn Burt, Oc Register, 29 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 1 Jun. 2026.

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