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
In testing, the team from China reduced heat damage by over 99 percent, preventing structural defects and enabling flawless, highly precise micro-components for extreme environments like aerospace engines and nuclear reactors. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 7 Sep. 2026 New offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel has been working closely with Herbert on release times and is making the run game a key component to his strategy. Los Angeles Times, 6 Sep. 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
  • The third-year wide receiver brings such a different element to the New York offense.
    Matt Schneidman, New York Times, 7 Sep. 2026
  • Both pairs were wise choices for the colder Telluride weather, keeping both parties’ feet warm and dry, protected from the elements.
    Amina Ayoud, Footwear News, 6 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Come January 1, 2027, strict Department of Defense mandates will bar Chinese-origin magnets and constituent materials from US defense platforms.
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Its cells would then engulf the food particle and break it down into its constituent molecules.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 12 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Running back Jordan Marshall had just 44 yards on 11 carries, and five-star freshman Savion Hiter wasn’t a factor.
    Austin Meek, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2026
  • According to the brand, this treatment was designed to address hereditary factors, hormonal fluctuations, nutritional deficiencies, and stress.
    Carly Cardellino Vaccaro, InStyle, 5 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Later, the Moon opposes powerful Pluto in Aquarius, creating tension between individual desires and what a group expects.
    Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 7 Sep. 2026
  • The significance of the programme extends beyond the construction of individual submarines.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 7 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Few brands have made ingredient lists feel as approachable as The Ordinary.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 6 Sep. 2026
  • Supplementation to their diet is limited to no more than 25% of dry matter and permitted feed ingredients include hay, wheat, barley, oats and maize from the same region.
    Vivian Song, CNN Money, 6 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Podded propulsion offers particular advantages in this environment.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 7 Sep. 2026
  • Tall goalkeepers have traditionally had to deal with a particular technical problem.
    Matt Pyzdrowski, New York Times, 7 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • The outlets reportedly viewed an internal email that had been sent to National Park Service staff in late December, revealing that staff members had been instructed to ask visitors to take any stickers off their card or it could be considered void.
    Angel Saunders, PEOPLE, 4 Sep. 2026
  • The crash killed Niamh Rolston, Peyton Stewart, Asha Weir and Deslyn Williams, all seniors at Pepperdine University in Malibu and members of the Alpha Phi sorority.
    Amanda Lee Myers, USA Today, 4 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 8 Sep. 2026.

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