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

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 science of acoustic fire suppression, which has long been known and documented in scientific literature and the press, works by vibrating oxygen molecules away from a fuel source, depriving the fire of a critical component needed for combustion. Cyrus Farivar, ArsTechnica, 2 May 2026 Under the new rules, drones and key components cannot even be transported into Beijing without permission. Todd Symons, CNN Money, 2 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
  • Step-backs, deep 3s, power drives, trips to the line – every element of their games was on display, and every possession seemed to raise the stakes.
    Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 Apr. 2026
  • Each element contributes to an experience that extends beyond the immediate act of dining.
    Matt Emma, USA Today, 29 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • By obtaining a spectrum from EGS-z11-R0—that is, by gathering and parsing its light into constituent colors, or wavelengths—the team also found evidence of carbon as another sign of galactic maturity.
    Jenna Ahart, Scientific American, 30 Apr. 2026
  • While many of Swalwell’s staffers have already quit, remaining staffers not involved in constituent services would lose their jobs and receive no severance pay.
    Ana Ceballos, Los Angeles Times, 13 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • All these factors combined lead to more walks.
    Ian Miller OutKick, FOXNews.com, 29 Apr. 2026
  • This is basically every aerophobic flier’s worst nightmare, and Harlin does a solid job of maintaining the fear factor and shock right up to the moment of Rich’s decision to dump fuel and ditch, since the nearest airport, Guam, is out of range.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 28 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • He’s tied with Robertson for the team lead with 12 individual scoring chances and has a team-high seven high-danger chances.
    Mark Lazerus, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2026
  • The rest of the property radiates outwards from here, incorporating four restaurants, rooms and suites spread across a number of individual low-rise blocks, the Conrad Spa, and meeting and events space.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Starting with a lower-strength formula two nights a week allows your skin to build tolerance without the peeling and redness that drive many people away from the ingredient entirely.
    Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Kansas City Star, 27 Apr. 2026
  • The core gameplay loop involved a lot of artificial timers and seemingly endless, repetitive clicking to convert crops into ingredients and then move those ingredients into factories.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 27 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • For most of the nation’s history, the former Confederate states have worked hard to minimize the political influence of Black residents in particular.
    Vann R. Newkirk II, The Atlantic, 2 May 2026
  • The property definitely has five-star comforts, but the service, at least on this particular day, was still experiencing some growing pains.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 May 2026
Noun
  • American is adding fees for seat assignments in basic economy, even for its elite-tier loyalty members.
    Mae Anderson, Chicago Tribune, 1 May 2026
  • They are often seen dodging screaming church members and security guards until they are ultimately escorted out.
    Elizabeth Robinson, NBC news, 30 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 4 May. 2026.

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