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
  • At the heart of this innovative post-cleanse toner/essence are herbal staples ginseng, Solomon's seal, and Japanese lily, which soothe, brighten, and protect skin against environmental factors that can lead to signs of aging.
    Sarah Han, Allure, 9 July 2025
  • Local seafood costs have been steadily rising due to several factors, including inflation and climate change, not to mention the cost of doing business for local fishermen, adds Mike Lombardi, whose grandfather founded Winter Park’s Lombardi’s Seafood in 1961.
    Amy Drew Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 9 July 2025
Noun
  • Lamont knows the futility of trying to please everyone, which may be one element of his success.
    Kevin Rennie, Hartford Courant, 5 July 2025
  • This though neglects the importance of AGI generalization, whereby the core element is that AI of this caliber is supposed to work across all manner of domains versus specializing in a specific domain such as chess.
    Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 4 July 2025
Noun
  • While a solution was put in place, Gastonia’s mayor, a city council member and local advocates say that having the cooling station outdoors is less than acceptable.
    Briah Lumpkins, Charlotte Observer, 1 July 2025
  • Barnhart appeared just once in the postseason, in 2020, as a member of the Reds.
    Aaliyan Mohammed, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 July 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ingredient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ingredient. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on ingredient

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!