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 truck driver may be gone, because tasks in that job don’t have a relational component. Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 19 Apr. 2026 The new facility will be built on the same site, and will allow for continuous service while the new Lewis House components are being built. Elliot Mann, Twin Cities, 19 Apr. 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
  • There's an element, again, of control, and the element of torture.
    ABC News, ABC News, 16 Apr. 2026
  • Leslie Hasselback Adams, USA high diving performance director, said Fort Lauderdale has all the elements—wind and sun—to get competitors ready for the Los Angeles Summer Olympics in two years.
    Joan Murray, CBS News, 16 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • 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
  • According to Hensley, the bill was prompted by a constituent request and evolved during the legislative process.
    Suzanne Blake, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • These closures reflect various factors, including poor investment returns, a lack of government support for refinery upgrades and higher carbon and energy costs.
    Ian King, CNBC, 15 Apr. 2026
  • So what factors contribute to the high costs of living, especially for international workers, which is primarily what Mercer focuses on?
    Amelia Mularz, Architectural Digest, 14 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Program staff and educators say the academy's impact is visible in individual student outcomes.
    Charlie Lapastora, CBS News, 14 Apr. 2026
  • In practice, this means that Afghan migrants, whose route to Poland almost always involves Belarus, cannot apply for asylum, regardless of their individual circumstances.
    ABC News, ABC News, 14 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • According to the report, Ward overdosed on a bottle of pills containing the active ingredient in Benadryl and became unresponsive.
    Adam Thompson, CBS News, 14 Apr. 2026
  • Jonathan Buford and Patrick Ware are best known for quirky, fantastical brews made with hyperlocal ingredients (often foraged) and Sinagua Malt, a low-water malt grown in Arizona’s Verde Valley.
    Chris Malloy, Bon Appetit Magazine, 14 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Evrima's spa is a must-do thanks to its sprawling relaxation deck perfect for a post-treatment nap or hot tub soak with a fresh juice or champagne in hand—all while the picturesque shoreline goes by (Monaco was in view on my particular visit to the spa deck).
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Apr. 2026
  • But one comment in particular stuck out to her.
    Mikayla Bunnell, Hartford Courant, 11 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Amazon’s exclusive hub is full of limited time deals that only Prime members can access, and deals span across all categories, including home, fashion, kitchen, and gardening.
    Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Apr. 2026
  • The mayor was joined by City Council members Adrian Nazarian and Imelda Padilla, as well as environmental advocates.
    Daily News, Daily News, 17 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 20 Apr. 2026.

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