Definition of ingredientnext

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 The key ingredients appear to be geographic concentration combined with genuine official bilingualism. Big Think, 4 May 2026 The final food product often doesn’t look like the ingredients used to make it. Kelly Burch, Verywell Health, 4 May 2026 Banning the sale of these supplements to minors is crucial due to the significant health risks associated with these products as a result of toxic ingredients and interactions with other medications. Jad Abdel Nour, Hartford Courant, 4 May 2026 Its pill Foundayo has a different active ingredient than its best-selling weight loss shot Zepbound. Angelica Peebles,elsa Ohlen,annika Kim Constantino, CNBC, 4 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for ingredient
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ingredient
Noun
  • But then finally, there's the economic growth component.
    CBS News, CBS News, 3 May 2026
  • This component is part of the circuit for both the horn and the airbag.
    Hartford Courant, Hartford Courant, 3 May 2026
Noun
  • All these factors combined lead to more walks.
    Ian Miller OutKick, FOXNews.com, 29 Apr. 2026
  • This is basically every aerophobic flier’s worst nightmare, and Harlin does a solid job of maintaining the fear factor and shock right up to the moment of Rich’s decision to dump fuel and ditch, since the nearest airport, Guam, is out of range.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 28 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • And the other really important element in this is, of course, the connection between Israel and the Jewish people.
    Isaac Chotiner, New Yorker, 7 May 2026
  • There's a gut-punching element of tragedy, too, as Loki kills his real father, Laufey (Colm Feore), then appears to plummet to his own death in the final act.
    Sergio Pereira, Space.com, 6 May 2026
Noun
  • The incident occurred as Minneapolis faced tensions from federal immigration enforcement operations, reflecting a broader uptick in threats against Congress members in recent years.
    Tim Sullivan, Los Angeles Times, 8 May 2026
  • Guadalupe Lopez, a member of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, took over the office in July 2025.
    Forum News Service, Twin Cities, 8 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Ingredient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ingredient. Accessed 10 May. 2026.

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