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
Pooling Resources For Disaster Resilience The service will see the carriers pool resources and specifies that the satellite services will function as supplementary components. —David Phelan, Forbes.com, 17 May 2026 Sort of the sensible side component of a larger story, and that’s not the case in this. —Glenn Garner, Deadline, 17 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
  1. element
  2. constituent
  3. factor
  4. individual
  5. ingredient
  6. particular
  7. member
Noun
  • So, even these magical elements that are not realistic are informed by the research.
    — Fiction Non Fiction, Literary Hub, 14 May 2026
  • In the United Kingdom, according to Andrew Crisell, talk and music radio brings together the two typical elements of radio content in a mix of information, culture, and entertainment.
    — Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 13 May 2026
Definition of element
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
Definition of constituent
Noun
  • Analysts say a key factor in Adani’s meteoric rise over the years has been his knack for aligning his group’s priorities with those of the Modi government.
    — Michael R. Sisak, Los Angeles Times, 19 May 2026
  • Thailand has long struggled with a high rate of deadly transportation accidents, with factors such as speeding, impaired driving and inconsistent traffic law enforcement frequently cited as contributing causes, according to the AFP.
    — Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 19 May 2026
Definition of factor
Adjective
  • There are both national and individual narratives for an ancient object or work of art.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 19 May 2026
  • Guardian® Disability Insurance Learn More Policy highlights Guardian issues individual long-term disability and group short-term disability insurance.
    — Liz Knueven, CNBC, 18 May 2026
Definition of individual
Noun
  • Foundayo uses a different active ingredient than Lilly's blockbuster injectables Mounjaro and Zepbound, while Novo's Wegovy pill is essentially an extension of the company's injectable equivalents.
    — Elsa Ohlen, CNBC, 18 May 2026
  • Emeril’s websites describes the restaurant today as a refined, modern expression of Chef Emeril’s classics, guided by seasonality, Louisiana ingredients and contemporary technique.
    — Noel Burgess, Forbes.com, 18 May 2026
Definition of ingredient
Adjective
  • Now better training methods and new technology—in particular, camera and radar networks that can precisely measure a ball’s movement and create three-dimensional models of a pitcher’s mechanics—have helped pitchers learn to throw harder and harder.
    — Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 17 May 2026
  • That particular section, which sets new standards around warehouse operations and gives employees more information about company quotas and biometric surveillance, has drawn pushback from CBIA.
    — P.R. Lockhart, Hartford Courant, 17 May 2026
Definition of particular
Noun
  • Flanked by several clergy members of various denominations, Dolan, 76, thanked his former colleagues, as well as civic and community officials, before praising Jesus Christ for his lengthy career in the church.
    — Louis Casiano, FOXNews.com, 15 May 2026
  • The many Luderer family members (Brian has four children and Matt has six daughters) have united to keep the faith.
    — Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 15 May 2026
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 20 May. 2026.

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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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