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
The second stories house supplies of the metals, films, and components needed, as well as a very substantial set of HVAC equipment to keep the processes sterile, dust-free, and at the right temperature. — John Voelcker, The Verge, 12 Oct. 2026 So language modeling seems to be merely a powerful component of human cognition, not its equivalent or source. — Quanta Magazine, 12 Oct. 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
  • In most cases, bed and board have to be paid for, but there are a series of daily spending caps on different elements, such as food and hotel costs.
    — The Week UK, TheWeek, 11 Oct. 2026
  • Their brand-new kits and crest, designed by former Sporting KC senior brand director Chad Reynolds, embrace Kansas City elements in designs and font.
    — Daniel Sperry, Kansas City Star, 11 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Now fighting his own deportation, Mo helped connect Stefani with the Chinese American constituency that makes up a large part of her district, and got into the nitty-gritty with constituent services, according to his colleagues.
    — Andrew Graham, Sacbee.com, 5 Oct. 2026
  • Interestingly, the material is also recyclable, meaning its constituent parts can be broken down and reused.
    — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 4 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Whereas collectability, value and investability of sports cards can rise and fall on the real-world performance of athletes, both trading-card genres share common factors.
    — Bob Woods, CNBC, 10 Oct. 2026
  • Even your language preference, country setting, and device type factor in, though TikTok says those carry less weight.
    — Bilin Lin, Fortune, 10 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Any eligibility restriction might seem unfair when applied to individual athletes.
    — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 13 Oct. 2026
  • But each individual hat will be situated in a nonrepeating pattern that continues to change no matter how large the overall tiling is.
    — Rachel Crowell, Scientific American, 12 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Bakery products from El Nuevo Progresso bakery lacked an ingredient list for each product.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 12 Oct. 2026
  • Per Degroote, who’s been in the unscripted business for over two decades, one of the key ingredients for a format’s success today lies in audience participation.
    — Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 12 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • True crime stories also happen to be a particular forte for the creative team, stressed François Aramburu, co-producer at Fontaram Productions.
    — Ed Meza, Variety, 8 Oct. 2026
  • Someone with a visa valid for several more years, for example, might still be admitted for only a few months on a particular trip.
    — Bailey Berg, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • And last December, after an already enviable year, Winter became the newest member of this exclusive club.
    — Walden Green, Pitchfork, 9 Oct. 2026
  • According to Tulsa World, the show stopped after just two songs and keyboardist Jonathan Cain addressed the crowd after all the other band members left the stage.
    — Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 9 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on component

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster