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
His playing has a soulful component that you are born with. Heide Janssen, Oc Register, 15 Mar. 2026 Parts pairing is where Apple digitally links components to a specific Mac’s serial number, meaning functionality is often restricted if the consumer opts for a repair outside of one of Apple’s official repair stores, or if the replacement parts aren’t properly paired . Will McCurdy, PC Magazine, 15 Mar. 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 redesign updates the hotel’s playful style while incorporating modern technology and design elements, featuring art curated by NINE dot ARTS.
    Jessica Alvarado Gamez, Denver Post, 19 Mar. 2026
  • Penn has five players from Illinois on the team, and that has added an element of fun to the matchup.
    Colleen Kane, Chicago Tribune, 19 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The pressure in their interior is so great that atoms are crushed and split apart into their constituent particles.
    Keith Cooper, Space.com, 15 Mar. 2026
  • The component pricing of the constituent parts—E5 at $60, Entra Suite at $12, Copilot at $30, and Agent 365 at $15—adds up to $117 per user.
    Jeremy Kahn, Fortune, 9 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The amount beneficiaries receive varies based on several factors, including the number of people filing.
    Asher Notheis, The Washington Examiner, 18 Mar. 2026
  • Nourishment, hydration, definition, slip—these are all factors that come to mind when thinking of the best curly hair products.
    Catharine Malzahn, Glamour, 18 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • High-voltage accessories, like the bright green Pierced pumps from the brand and modernist silver earrings, bring these individual pieces together in a very contemporary way.
    Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 17 Mar. 2026
  • For example, individual filers can receive up to $994, couples filing jointly can receive $1,491, and those providing essential care to SSI recipients can receive up to $498.
    Asher Notheis, The Washington Examiner, 17 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • In the kitchen, ingredients are sourced locally to reduce carbon footprint and maintain freshness.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Mar. 2026
  • While Phlur continues to dominate as a household name, brands like Salt&Stone, Maison Louis Marie, and Sidia are blending skincare-ingredients with their scents.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 16 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Sable has faced particular backlash over its efforts to restart a pipeline that ruptured in 2015, causing one of the biggest oil spills in state history.
    Clara Harter Los Angeles Times, Arkansas Online, 15 Mar. 2026
  • This had caused great dismay for my grandparents—my grandfather in particular.
    Han Ong, New Yorker, 15 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Three airmen from the Ohio Air National Guard's 121st Air Refueling Wing were among six crew members killed on March 12 when their KC-135 Stratotanker crashed in western Iraq.
    Steven Beynon, ABC News, 20 Mar. 2026
  • The transfer portal may have been limited to a 15-day window this year, but preparing for it, as college football personnel department members will tell you, is a year-long job.
    Joseph Hoyt, Dallas Morning News, 20 Mar. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 21 Mar. 2026.

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