component 1 of 2

noun

kəm-ˈpō-nənt How to pronounce component (audio)
Definition of componentnext
as in element
one of the parts that make up a whole each set is composed of several distinct components

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

component

2 of 2

adjective

as in constituent

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

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
Perceptual convergence of multi-component mixtures in olfaction implies an olfactory white. —Ed Yong, Discover Magazine, 20 Nov. 2012 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
Adjective
There is a genetic component to developing type 2 diabetes. —Fran Kritz, Verywell Health, 24 July 2025 Like most podcasts today, there is a video component. —Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 24 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for component
Recent Examples of Synonyms for component
  1. element
  2. constituent
  3. factor
  4. individual
  5. ingredient
  6. particular
  7. member
Noun
  • Plaintiff Phone Discovery: Critical Strategic Elements Successful phone discovery requires understanding several strategic elements that can significantly improve outcomes: The Education Component: Many resistance issues stem from genuine misunderstanding about what cell phone forensics involves.
    — Lars Daniel, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
  • Dress-up, of course, is a traditional element of ocean voyaging.
    — Guy Trebay, Travel + Leisure, 15 July 2025
Definition of element
Adjective
  • By investing strategically in technology, nonprofits and higher education institutions can strengthen operations, deepen constituent relationships and future-proof their missions.
    — Tal Frankfurt, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • New group, new governor, new momentum What the marijuana lobbying effort has missed in Indiana, Swanson said, is a concerted campaign to organize at the constituent level: Making sure that lawmakers are getting emails from hundreds of people who actually live in their districts.
    — Kayla Dwyer, IndyStar, 2 July 2025
Definition of constituent
Noun
  • But the looming presence of the vacant church property — particularly the church itself — is likely to remain a factor in the area’s future development, McArdle said.
    — Kenneth R. Gosselin, Hartford Courant, 21 July 2025
  • Despite this, McAllister was permitted to enter without being asked to remove his chain, a factor that is believed to have contributed to his death.
    — Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 21 July 2025
Definition of factor
Adjective
  • The restaurant offers boxes and platters of half, whole or individual pieces of chicken with either original, spicy or honey butter flavor. Details: 707 N. Navajo Drive, Page.
    — Endia Fontanez, AZCentral.com, 22 July 2025
  • To the extent that a reader has any questions regarding the applicability of any specific issue discussed above to his/her individual situation, he/she is encouraged to consult with the professional advisor of his/her choosing, including a tax advisor and/or attorney.
    — Steve Hruby, The Enquirer, 22 July 2025
Definition of individual
Noun
  • Asking for just 8 ingredients and about half an hour of time, this easy beef stroganoff recipe is a weeknight winner.
    — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 July 2025
  • Avocado emulsifies the salsa, bringing all the ingredients together for a zippy bite filled with fresh tomatillo, cilantro, and serrano flavor.
    — Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 25 July 2025
Definition of ingredient
Adjective
  • In these ways, Norman feels intertwined with so much Charlotte history, with so many important Charlotte people, of a particular time in the city.
    — Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 14 July 2025
  • The best Japanese sunscreen, in particular, shines, with many travelers stocking up on their trips to the island—or going as far as asking friends to bring these coveted cosmetic staples back to the States for them.
    — Iman Balagam, Vogue, 14 July 2025
Definition of particular
Noun
  • The film features returning cast members like Julie Bowen, Christopher McDonald and Ben Stiller.
    — Thania Garcia, Variety, 14 July 2025
  • Countless studies have shown that outcomes for citizens improve when members of the media ask probing questions of politicians.
    — Olga Khazan, The Atlantic, 14 July 2025
Definition of member

Browse Nearby Words

comply (with)
component
components
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Cite this Entry

“Component.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/component. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on component

Nglish: Translation of component for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about component

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