INGREDIENT Synonyms: 45 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

ingredient

noun

in-ˈgrē-dē-ənt

Definition of ingredient next

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

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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 Avoid the following ingredients, which can irritate the skin:9 Alcohol Camphor Glycolic acid Lactic acid Menthol Urea Avoid any products with artificial fragrances or dyes. —

Carrie Madormo, Rn, Mph, Verywell Health, 27 Jan. 2025 With two elite quarterbacks, top-tier offenses, and strong defenses, this game has all the ingredients for a down-to-the-wire finish. —

Joel Thayer, Newsweek, 26 Jan. 2025 There’s also a new à la carte menu, which shines a spotlight on regional ingredients. —

Diana Spechler, Robb Report, 25 Jan. 2025 Some ingredients may be in short supply or available only for weeks instead of months. —

Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 24 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for ingredient

Recent Examples of Synonyms for ingredient

Noun

Hydrogen is emerging as a crucial component of the global energy transition, offering a versatile and clean fuel option that could significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

— Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 25 Jan. 2025
In 2019, a team demonstrated this was possible, by chemically producing a gel containing calcium phosphate — a key component of enamel.

— Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 24 Jan. 2025