ingredient

noun

in-ˈgrē-dē-ənt How to pronounce ingredient (audio)
Definition of ingredientnext
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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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 As a result, some supplement products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 24 July 2025 Oh, just bioavailable ingredients that deliver vitamins and minerals to help boost scalp health and promote hair vitality. —Katie Decker-Jacoby, StyleCaster, 24 July 2025 Replacing cement here would require identifying ingredients that would offer similar strength, durability, and resistance to cracking. —Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 24 July 2025 Since Paula's Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster has a high concentration of the star ingredient, Dr. Kunin suggests adding it to your rosacea treatment routine. —Sarah Madaus, Allure, 24 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for ingredient
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ingredient
  1. component
  2. factor
  3. element
  4. member
Noun
  • Roberson was a key component to the Buffs’ playoff appearance a season ago.
    — Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 July 2025
  • Adventure Mate uses a mixture of hardened tool steel, composite and aerospace-grade aluminum to create a powerful, rugged tool that weighs in under 5 lb (2.3 kg) inclusive of all the hard components (handle, axe/saw head and shovel head).
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 25 July 2025
Definition of component
Noun
  • Therefore, any evacuation decision would need to include factors beyond a hurricane’s category.
    — Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 2 Aug. 2025
  • Finances are tight, but United can contemplate another signing because of a few factors.
    — Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 2 Aug. 2025
Definition of factor
Noun
  • Hegar's projection, officially called the biennial revenue estimate, is a crucial element in the setup to Tuesday's start of the 2025 legislative session.
    — John C. Moritz, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025
  • Long spoke on the city's programming for youth, which has been a major element of the city's plan to combat juvenile crime during the summertime.
    — David Ferrara, The Enquirer, 30 July 2025
Definition of element
Noun
  • The film features returning cast members like Julie Bowen, Christopher McDonald and Ben Stiller.
    — Thania Garcia, Variety, 14 July 2025
  • Hamm, who like Ellis Maples is a member of the Carolina Golf Hall of Fame, opened the first course in 1968, a layout that hosted the ACC men’s golf championship in 1970, 1973, and 1975.
    — Erik Matuszewski, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
Definition of member

Browse Nearby Words

ingratitude
ingredient
ingredients
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ingredient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ingredient. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

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Nglish: Translation of ingredient for Spanish Speakers

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