component 1 of 2

noun

kəm-ˈpō-nənt How to pronounce component (audio)
Definition of componentnext
as in element
one of the parts that make up a whole each set is composed of several distinct components

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

component

2 of 2

adjective

as in constituent

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

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
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
Adjective
There is a genetic component to developing type 2 diabetes. —Fran Kritz, Verywell Health, 24 July 2025 Like most podcasts today, there is a video component. —Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 24 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for component
Recent Examples of Synonyms for component
  1. element
  2. constituent
  3. factor
  4. individual
  5. ingredient
  6. particular
  7. member
Noun
  • Hegar's projection, officially called the biennial revenue estimate, is a crucial element in the setup to Tuesday's start of the 2025 legislative session.
    — John C. Moritz, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025
  • Long spoke on the city's programming for youth, which has been a major element of the city's plan to combat juvenile crime during the summertime.
    — David Ferrara, The Enquirer, 30 July 2025
Definition of element
Adjective
  • By investing strategically in technology, nonprofits and higher education institutions can strengthen operations, deepen constituent relationships and future-proof their missions.
    — Tal Frankfurt, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • New group, new governor, new momentum What the marijuana lobbying effort has missed in Indiana, Swanson said, is a concerted campaign to organize at the constituent level: Making sure that lawmakers are getting emails from hundreds of people who actually live in their districts.
    — Kayla Dwyer, IndyStar, 2 July 2025
Definition of constituent
Noun
  • There are probably a lot of factors to that, but among them, consider the idea that maybe his audience has been scared straight… scared Strait won’t come around again.
    — Chris Willman, Variety, 21 July 2025
  • Experts have noted that while as much as 80% of medical education focuses on biology, about 60% of premature deaths are due to behavioral factors including lifestyle habits like diet, exercise, and smoking.
    — Alice Park, Time, 21 July 2025
Definition of factor
Adjective
  • To the extent that a reader has any questions regarding the applicability of any specific issue discussed above to his/her individual situation, he/she is encouraged to consult with the professional advisor of his/her choosing, including a tax advisor and/or attorney.
    — Steve Hruby, The Enquirer, 22 July 2025
  • The restaurant offers boxes and platters of half, whole or individual pieces of chicken with either original, spicy or honey butter flavor. Details: 707 N. Navajo Drive, Page.
    — Endia Fontanez, AZCentral.com, 22 July 2025
Definition of individual
Noun
  • Asking for just 8 ingredients and about half an hour of time, this easy beef stroganoff recipe is a weeknight winner.
    — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 July 2025
  • Avocado emulsifies the salsa, bringing all the ingredients together for a zippy bite filled with fresh tomatillo, cilantro, and serrano flavor.
    — Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 25 July 2025
Definition of ingredient
Adjective
  • This particular pain is never returned to—not in these terms.
    — James Wood, New Yorker, 14 July 2025
  • In these ways, Norman feels intertwined with so much Charlotte history, with so many important Charlotte people, of a particular time in the city.
    — Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 14 July 2025
Definition of particular
Noun
  • The film features returning cast members like Julie Bowen, Christopher McDonald and Ben Stiller.
    — Thania Garcia, Variety, 14 July 2025
  • Hamm, who like Ellis Maples is a member of the Carolina Golf Hall of Fame, opened the first course in 1968, a layout that hosted the ACC men’s golf championship in 1970, 1973, and 1975.
    — Erik Matuszewski, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
Definition of member

Browse Nearby Words

comply (with)
component
components
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Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 2 Aug. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on component

Nglish: Translation of component for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about component

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