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component

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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
Scopely spent $70 million and seven years, beginning in 2016, trying to figure out the best way to adapt the original board game for a very different experience of gaming on a mobile phone, with a free-to-play mechanic and a strong social component. David Bloom, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025 There’s just so many components of the business that have to be looked at. Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 1 May 2025
Adjective
Perceptual convergence of multi-component mixtures in olfaction implies an olfactory white. Ed Yong, Discover Magazine, 20 Nov. 2012 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 See All Example Sentences for component
Recent Examples of Synonyms for component
Noun
  • Artificial intelligence was a major factor in the actors strike of 2023 and the burgeoning technology will remain a key element in next year’s negotiations.
    Peter White, Deadline, 5 May 2025
  • Morality is not a useful element in foreign policy decision making.
    Frank Lavin, Forbes.com, 4 May 2025
Adjective
  • Their vineyard, for example, is far more than the sum of its constituent parts precisely because each individual aspect is so obsessed over in order to maximize quality.
    Brian Freedman, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025
  • Sometimes Congress emphasizes a different approach to meeting national security priorities; sometimes its choices are driven more by constituent job concerns.
    Mara Karlin, Foreign Affairs, 24 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • And this is where the Trump factor could come into play.
    Claudia Grisales, NPR, 28 Apr. 2025
  • Others said the length of time a slip is used should not be a factor.
    Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Her most notable reporting has been about taxes, including exposing billionaire tax cheats and writing cover stories on tax shelters (both corporate and individual), tax evasion, tax informants, tax administration, tax policy and legitimate tax planning.
    Emma Whitford, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2025
  • The tangible economic benefits of a bachelor’s degree go on and on at the individual level and to society in general.
    Arne Duncan, Chicago Tribune, 28 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • No disrespect to the freezer aisle, but our favorite veggie burger ideas start with fresh ingredients—not prefab pucks.
    Emily Saladino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 May 2025
  • The cream is formulated with key ingredients such as arctic marine ferment for improving discoloration and texture, milk thistle and bearberry extract for their smoothing benefits, and pullulan for firming and targeting loose and crepey skin.
    Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 2 May 2025
Adjective
  • In particular, many younger men seem adrift and more drawn to macho, traditional models of being a man.
    Harmeet Kaur, CNN Money, 4 May 2025
  • Mamdani is tapping into a well of energetic support among young voters in particular, thanks in no small part to his stance on issues such as the Israel/Gaza conflict and trans rights.
    Emma Specter, Vogue, 4 May 2025
Noun
  • What allows this program to shine is its faculty members who foster each of the dozens of students within the Fashion Design Program.
    Cassell Ferere, Forbes.com, 4 May 2025
  • In the wake of the murder, each member of the family retreated into their own private grief.
    Erin Moriarty, Liza Finley, CBS News, 4 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 11 May. 2025.

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