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
Manufacturers have largely shifted to supporting the AI computing boom, which leaves fewer components for consumer devices like smartphones and PCs. Ryan Whitwam, ArsTechnica, 13 July 2026 Or were the essential components already here that eventually gave rise to our solar system? CBS News, 13 July 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
  • Instead of crowding your entryway with a table, bench and coat rack, consider getting a piece that combines those elements, says Lynch.
    Andee Tagle, NPR, 19 July 2026
  • Electronic warfare is increasingly becoming a critical element of modern military operations, where forces must rapidly detect, identify and counter hostile electromagnetic emissions while protecting friendly communications.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 19 July 2026
Adjective
  • Metreweli attended Westminster School in London and then studied social anthropology at Pembroke College, one of the constituent colleges of the University of Cambridge.
    Nick Tabor, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 June 2026
  • Is constituent data consistent across programs?
    Penta Rao Marapatla, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
Noun
  • No one knows all the factors behind the population’s recent boom, although researchers point to recent extreme weather events and climate change, perhaps compounded with a rise in shipping traffic over recent decades.
    Kasha Patel, CNN Money, 18 July 2026
  • By the author’s own admission, determining whether a condition constitutes a disease can influence factors like insurance coverage.
    Torie Bosch, STAT, 18 July 2026
Adjective
  • Behind that toll are individual losses, told here through what people carried out of the debris.
    New York Times, New York Times, 20 July 2026
  • Boaters can purchase an individual AIS Stamp for $7, which is assigned to the individual purchasing the stamp.
    Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 19 July 2026
Noun
  • Skyroot will need a lot more funding to realize that dream, but Saturday’s launch showed the company has ingredients required for a successful launch company.
    Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 19 July 2026
  • Fresh cream, valued for its rich butterfat content, is the most expensive ingredient in ice cream.
    Isabelle LaBianco, CNN Money, 19 July 2026
Adjective
  • According to the laws of the game, the break between halves should be no longer than 15 minutes but FIFA has been quite vague about the rules for this particular tournament.
    Ben Church, CNN Money, 19 July 2026
  • Hair grows in different cycles, and the laser only affects hairs in a particular phase of their growth.
    The Editors, Robb Report, 19 July 2026
Noun
  • The Food and Drug Administration said such members could represent potential conflicts of interest, the individuals said.
    Rachel Roubein, Washington Post, 17 July 2026
  • Margaret Flanagan, who now directs the ongoing nun study at UT Health, has family members who attended a Chicago school run by the School Sisters of Notre Dame.
    Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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