component 1 of 2

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 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
Adjective
But the trade war has made vital components more expensive, and changes to US law mean Tesla can no longer sell emissions credits to more polluting rivals. Ben Smith, semafor.com, 24 Oct. 2025 Singh says the mercury telluride device’s development represents a step toward on-chip THz sources—a prerequisite for miniaturizing today’s bulky tabletop systems into components suitable for consumer or data-center use. Meghie Rodrigues, IEEE Spectrum, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for component
Recent Examples of Synonyms for component
Noun
  • Nobody Wants This is a tougher case because its leads, Kristen Bell and Adam Brody, are just so charming and many of its observations about love and family are just so spot-on that weaker elements can get lost in the froth.
    Judy Berman, Time, 23 Oct. 2025
  • There’s another element of the current concern regarding due process that relates to the fate of poor Cinna.
    JSTOR Daily, JSTOR Daily, 23 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Most are galaxies, with light that is dominated by their constituent stars.
    Big Think, Big Think, 20 Oct. 2025
  • Critics responded that while neither the person nor the book understood Chinese, the room itself might: A system can have properties that its constituent parts lack.
    Semafor Events, semafor.com, 2 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • If length is typically a determining factor when buying pants, the trousers are available in three inseam options to ensure shoppers of all heights can find the right fit.
    Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Aggregate score is not a factor.
    Avi Creditor, New York Times, 23 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Only a few months ago Salah was deservedly collecting a stack of individual awards after a remarkable campaign which yielded 57 goal involvements (34 goals, 23 assists) in all competitions.
    James Pearce, New York Times, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Shannon was working the former Hinas and Alex hard — trying to make individual connections with each of them.
    Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 23 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • For example, your soup might include a couple of vegetables but lack ingredients that add bulk, flavor, and protein.
    Brian Mastroianni, Health, 22 Oct. 2025
  • This is further demonstrated by the concentration of Mānuka honey Aunu is using in conjunction with complementary ingredients.
    Emily Burns, Footwear News, 22 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • In particular, Auburn's Hugh Freeze has quickly emerged as a coach who could very well be on the outs if the remainder of the 2025 season goes downhill.
    Reice Shipley, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Oct. 2025
  • Not since Mister Rogers has an actual adult human managed to break into that particular canon of cultural fixtures, becoming a household name and shaping the imaginations of millions while still speaking joyfully and directly to the youngest amongst us.
    Samantha Barry, Glamour, 27 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The Institute views Louisville as an Urban Laboratory and the organization’s researchers partner with community members and policy makers with an eye toward building healthier cities.
    Maggie Menderski, Louisville Courier Journal, 26 Oct. 2025
  • Head over to Amazon to check out all of the Prime member deals for yourself, and keep scrolling for more exclusive savings on home essentials.
    Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 25 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on component

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!