Synonym Chooser

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

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 ingredient Moisturizer Ingredients Moisturizers that aren't thick enough or don't contain the right ingredients for your skin type can cause dryness. Sherri Gordon, Health, 6 June 2025 First and foremost, this lightweight, gel-like moisturizer is enriched with hyaluronic acid, aka one of the best skincare ingredients for summer weather. Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 6 June 2025 Preventives containing ingredients such as chlorantraniliprole are more bee-friendly than other products that are neonicotinoids, such as imidicloprid, says Potter. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 27 May 2025 The lunar elixir, from the Ugly Delicious section of Fura’s Journal of Future Foods menu highlighting retail-imperfect ingredients, was a sensory bait and switch. Adam Erace, Bon Appetit Magazine, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for ingredient
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ingredient
Noun
  • Family plans also add a parental control component.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 7 June 2025
  • Health insurers - losers The bill includes substantial funding cuts for the U.S. Medicaid program, with fiscal hawks pushing for cuts to partly offset the cost of the bill's tax components.
    Shashwat Chauhan, USA Today, 7 June 2025
Noun
  • More customer satisfaction studies Four other studies by J.D. Power marketing research firm also tracked overall customer satisfaction for banking and credit card digital offerings based on four factors: navigation; speed; visual appeal; and information/content.
    Catherine Muccigrosso, Charlotte Observer, 3 June 2025
  • Good drainage, a spot in full sun, fertile soil, and adequate space are all factors in successfully growing dahlias in pots.
    Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 2025
Noun
  • By assessing population data, demographics and neighborhoods can be identified as lacking certain elements.
    FNU Anupama, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
  • The new customization center will incorporate renewable energy with built in energy-efficient design elements in lighting, water consumption and overall layout.
    Lauren Parker, Sourcing Journal, 9 June 2025
Noun
  • George acknowledges his dominant role but pretty much laughs off any frustration the other members might have felt.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 9 June 2025
  • Many of our current team members started through these programs.
    Jamie Lang, Variety, 9 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Ingredient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ingredient. Accessed 15 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on ingredient

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