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 It’s infused with moisture-rich ingredients like safflower seed oil, marigold extract, and amber extract to give your hair a silky finish and reflective shine. Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 30 June 2025 Hilma’s soothing relief capsules address digestive issues like bloating, gas, and upset stomach using natural ingredients like fennel and peppermint—two botanicals renowned for bloat relief. Brianna Peters, Vogue, 30 June 2025 Like all products in the W by Jake Paul line, this hair gel is made with less harmful ingredients and infused with helpful vitamins. Christopher Murray May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 30 June 2025 The grandmother of 10 has been keeping her cooking skills sharp in detention, making due with limited ingredients for tamales and birria tacos. Nick Penzenstadler, USA Today, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for ingredient
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ingredient
Noun
  • Every three months the components are reset to 2.5% weighting.
    Brendan Coffey, Sportico.com, 1 July 2025
  • One reason is that these five stocks – all DJIA components – have been dropping in price, not rising.
    John Navin, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • Your credit limit on a zero-interest card might range from $1,500 to $10,000 or more, depending on your credit score and other factors.
    Daniel de Visé, USA Today, 27 June 2025
  • Among the factors – beyond the prospect of a hard cap – in sitting out Thursday night’s second round was the Heat already with a packed roster at the moment.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 27 June 2025
Noun
  • Working as part of a collaboration often scrubs the more human elements from the story, those moments that might be unflattering are the moments that remind people that these mythic figures of our imagination are, in fact, flawed humans, just like you and me.
    Brendan O’Meara June 23, Literary Hub, 23 June 2025
  • The third element involves moving the listing to multiple listing services, or MLS, and onto aggregation sites like Zillow.
    Aimee Picchi, CBS News, 23 June 2025
Noun
  • In 1976, Misericordia expanded its operations to the former Angel Guardian Orphanage, on 22 acres in West Ridge, with Connelly, 39 children and 35 dedicated staff members moving there.
    Bob Goldsborough, Chicago Tribune, 22 June 2025
  • In September, members of this elite unit surprised the world by entering an underground missile factory used by Iran in Syria.
    Jennifer Griffin, FOXNews.com, 21 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Ingredient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ingredient. Accessed 5 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on ingredient

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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