ELEMENT Synonyms: 124 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

element

noun

ˈe-lə-mənt

Definition of element next

as in component

one of the parts that make up a whole a free press is an essential element of a democracy

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in principles

elements plural general or basic truths on which other truths or theories can be based the elements of mathematics can be traced back to Euclid

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in area

a region of activity, knowledge, or influence she felt a bit out of her element in the mathematics section of the exam

Synonyms & Similar Words

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 Photo: Getty Images Designed to mimic the effects of the elements, Meghan sported a natural dewy base with blusher angled up to the cheekbone, along with a matching glossy nude lip. —

Ranyechi Udemezue, Vogue, 11 Feb. 2025 Related Articles Zellweger wore a strapless pink dress with a structural element on the bodice. —

Julia Teti, WWD, 10 Feb. 2025 There are elements of CISA, the elections security mission specifically, that was clearly spelled out in Project 2025 as a distraction, as something that's not core. —

CBS News, 9 Feb. 2025 The facade’s most distinctive element is a series of diagonal metal scrims across its face. —

Edward Keegan, Chicago Tribune, 9 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for element

Recent Examples of Synonyms for element

Noun

Bill’s charity funded research into alternative battery tech, but without their ongoing investment in it, cobalt is far more likely to remain a battery component, which may have led to its recent spike in price.

— Sophie Brookover, Vulture, 6 Feb. 2025
The descent element will be one of three main components of Argonaut.

— Andrew Jones, Space.com, 6 Feb. 2025