Synonyms of ingredient

ingredient

noun

in-ˈgrē-dē-ənt 

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

• component
• factor
• element
• member
• constituent
• basis
• characteristic
• item
• building block
• feature
• aspect
• trait
• section
• particular
• portion
• detail
• piece
• segment
• facet
• part and parcel
• fragment
• sector
• particle
• partition
• division
• point
• subcomponent

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• whole
• compound
• mass
• composite
• aggregate
• total
• sum
• combination
• mixture
• mix
• entirety
• totality
• summation
• blend
• amalgam
• admixture
• amalgamation
• intermixture

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

Recent Examples of ingredient

Those extra ingredients don’t evaporate quickly on glass and can leave frustrating streaks, cloudiness, and smudges behind. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 5 Nov. 2025

The hotel honors its commitment to sustainability with an organic garden that provides fresh ingredients for the restaurant—a rarity on the island, where logistics make fresh produce difficult to come by. —Carla Vianna, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2025

There are so many Italian recipes using stale bread as a base ingredient, completely transforming it into something incredibly delicious. —Francesca Giuliani Hoffman, CNN Money, 5 Nov. 2025

These tests make sure the pills contain the correct dosage of the active ingredient, are made to the proper physical specifications and are not contaminated with heavy metals or microbes. —C. Michael White, The Conversation, 30 Oct. 2025