Definition of elementnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word element distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of element are component, constituent, and ingredient. While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity.

the basic elements of geometry

How are the words component and constituent related as synonyms of element?

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 element?

The synonyms constituent and element are sometimes interchangeable, but constituent stresses its essential and formative character.

the constituents of a chemical compound

When is it sensible to use ingredient instead of element?

The words ingredient and element can be used in similar contexts, but 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 element Some elements of Maximum Pleasure aren’t as neatly tucked into the show’s larger thriller mechanic, the most distracting being Jake Johnson as Paula’s ex-husband. Kathryn Vanarendonk, Vulture, 27 May 2026 The Lions have a new offensive coordinator in Drew Petzing, and while they’re expected to keep the core elements that have made this a revered unit intact, Petzing will undoubtedly have his own terminology and concepts to install. Colton Pouncy, New York Times, 27 May 2026 The housing element is based on an eight-year cycle, and nothing is expected to be built in time to qualify. John Ramos, CBS News, 27 May 2026 None of these elements work well in isolation. Boris Kontsevoi, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for element
Recent Examples of Synonyms for element
Noun
  • While Belarus has not contributed troops to battle, Lukashenko has backed President Vladimir Putin’s war effort by hosting Russia’s nuclear weapons and military infrastructure, as well as producing components for Moscow’s military industries.
    ABC News, ABC News, 31 May 2026
  • While lithium often dominates headlines, graphite is actually one of the largest components inside a lithium-ion battery by weight.
    Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 31 May 2026
Noun
  • There's much more, but this is a taster of how much money and time the partnership divert back into the area.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026
  • Onsite voting for the June 2 California Primary is underway, however at least one voting station is being used as an emergency shelter and some ballot drop boxes in the Southland are closed in the immediate area.
    Paris Barraza, USA Today, 24 May 2026
Noun
  • Inflation concerns Another factor that could push the RBI in favour of a rate cut is the risk of higher inflation.
    Sri Jegarajah,Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 3 June 2026
  • Much of Microsoft’s messaging around AI is speculative and self-serving, but the company rightly points out that new computing form factors have always required specialization, and that process is complex and expensive.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 2 June 2026
Noun
  • Those booking treatments at Sastra should coordinate directly with the spa to see what is possible on an individual basis.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 June 2026
  • As Augie Lopez trotted around the bases late Monday night, the small contingent of USC fans could finally be heard at Blue Bell Park.
    Jose de Jesus Ortiz, Los Angeles Times, 2 June 2026
Noun
  • At some point these imaginary works pass into the realm of co-creation.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 2 June 2026
  • Instead, use binders in nature that can assemble natural materials into a future where Earth can digest the architectural realm.
    Marcella Baietto, CBS News, 1 June 2026
Noun
  • The kitchen teams source 70% of their ingredients from local purveyors, reducing the hotel’s carbon footprint, too.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026
  • When the skin barrier is healthy, the skin looks calmer, smoother, more luminous and more tolerant of active ingredients, Devgan tells me.
    Rachel Burchfield, Forbes.com, 1 June 2026
Noun
  • Questionnaires may have been edited for spelling, grammar, length and clarity.
    Mercury News Editorial Board, Mercury News, 27 May 2026
  • Quotes from survey respondents have been lightly edited for grammar and clarity.
    Emily Guskin, ABC News, 27 May 2026
Noun
  • Research on fine art collections in wealthy families — another domain where the older generation controls the asset and the younger one will inherit the complications — found that roughly six in 10 collectors haven’t discussed their collections with their heirs at all.
    Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 1 June 2026
  • That cycle will repeat across every enterprise use case until organizations treat AI deployment as a serious engineering and domain expertise challenge, not a demo.
    Praful Saklani, Forbes.com, 1 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Element.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/element. Accessed 3 Jun. 2026.

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