INGREDIENT Synonyms: 45 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'ingredient' distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of ingredient are component , constituent , and element . While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture. // the ingredients of a cocktail

Q: How do 'component' and 'constituent' relate to one another, in the sense of 'ingredient'?

Both 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

Q: Where would 'constituent' be a reasonable alternative to 'ingredient'?

The synonyms constituent and ingredient are sometimes interchangeable, but constituent stresses its essential and formative character. // the constituents of a chemical compound

Q: When might 'element' be a better fit than 'ingredient'?

In some situations, the words element and ingredient are roughly equivalent. However, element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity. // the basic elements of geometry

ingredient

noun

in-ˈgrē-dē-ənt

Definition of ingredient next

as in component

one of the parts that make up a whole one of the ingredients in the salad dressing is sugar

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How is the word ingredient distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of ingredient are component, constituent, and element. While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture.

the ingredients of a cocktail

How do component and constituent relate to one another, in the sense of ingredient?

Both 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

Where would constituent be a reasonable alternative to ingredient?

The synonyms constituent and ingredient are sometimes interchangeable, but constituent stresses its essential and formative character.

the constituents of a chemical compound

When might element be a better fit than ingredient?

In some situations, the words element and ingredient are roughly equivalent. However, element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity.

the basic elements of geometry

Examples 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 ingredient Don’t let the name or the ingredient list for the cocktail intimidate you. —

Patrice J. Williams, Essence, 15 Jan. 2025 Different forms of kimchi will be reimagined and presented as their own courses on this culinary journey that will also spotlight foundational Korean ingredients like doenjang and ganjang. —

Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 14 Jan. 2025 Compared to natural peanut butter, which often has an oily layer that can affect the finished product of baked goods, Skippy’s recipe includes a couple ingredients to prevent separation. —

Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Jan. 2025 While some are experimenting with AI for ads, others are using it to track ingredient usage and reduce waste. —

Francisco Velasquez, Quartz, 14 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for ingredient

Recent Examples of Synonyms for ingredient

Noun

There is a genetic component to developing type 2 diabetes.

Carisa Brewster, Verywell Health, 14 Jan. 2025
Critical minerals and rare earth elements are vital components in emerging green technologies, such as wind turbines and electric vehicles, energy storage technologies and national security applications.

Sam Meredith, CNBC, 14 Jan. 2025