component 1 of 2

Definition of componentnext

component

2 of 2

adjective

Synonym Chooser

How is the word component distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of component are constituent, element, and ingredient. While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," 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

In what contexts can constituent take the place of component?

While in some cases nearly identical to component, constituent stresses its essential and formative character.

the constituents of a chemical compound

When is element a more appropriate choice than component?

While the synonyms element and component are close in meaning, element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity.

the basic elements of geometry

When is it sensible to use ingredient instead of component?

Although the words ingredient and component have much in common, ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture.

the ingredients of a cocktail

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 component
Noun
The event included a 10-mile race around the stadiums, a 5K run and walk, a sensory walk and a virtual component. Raymond Strickland, CBS News, 9 May 2026 Training you out of real relationships Conversations with AI are missing some key components — a void that can make these seemingly lifelike interactions unhelpful or even harmful to those who want more connection. Madeline Holcombe, CNN Money, 9 May 2026
Adjective
The layout by Oakland design studio Open Daily is clean; even more complicated recipes, like Henry Hsu’s multi-component cornerstone rice cakes, are easy to follow. Soleil Ho, SFChronicle.com, 9 Nov. 2020 By the '70s, motorists could buy component parts to convert older models into unique classics. Dalvin Brown, USA TODAY, 21 Oct. 2019 See All Example Sentences for component
Recent Examples of Synonyms for component
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
Adjective
  • To use it as a fuel, these molecules must be split into their constituent parts.
    Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 3 May 2026
  • By obtaining a spectrum from EGS-z11-R0—that is, by gathering and parsing its light into constituent colors, or wavelengths—the team also found evidence of carbon as another sign of galactic maturity.
    Jenna Ahart, Scientific American, 30 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Without a control group, a study is unlikely to reveal which factors in someone’s life led them to act.
    Jackie Flynn Mogensen, Scientific American, 12 May 2026
  • All these factors have contributed to confusion about whether participating in No Mow May is still beneficial.
    Anne Readel, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 May 2026
Adjective
  • Instead of everything being controlled through a single touch-screen, dedicated physical controls and circuits would allow easier servicing of individual components.
    Letters to the Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 May 2026
  • Arcadia city officials said the case is tied to Wang’s individual conduct and does not impact city operations.
    Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 12 May 2026
Noun
  • Much of the ingredients will be sources directly from Greece, including olive oil, olives, feta cheese and grape leaves.
    Sarah Kyrcz, Hartford Courant, 12 May 2026
  • The bar menu is divided into Indian regions, each with cocktails inspired by the dishes and ingredients local to that part of the country.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 May 2026
Adjective
  • In a sane world, Congress would put a stop to it and reassert its own power to regulate import duties; unfortunately, this particular GOP Congress seems content enough to be a lapdog watching Trump usurp them and damage the economy and our international standing.
    New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 10 May 2026
  • Luxor, in particular, has become a focal point.
    Jamie Carter, Space.com, 10 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

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 13 May. 2026.

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