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

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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

Examples 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 Often, with our reviews, there are several key components to highlight, but Arduino starter kits have dozens, if not hundreds, of elements. —

Bob Beacham, Popular Science, 22 Nov. 2024 There’s an element of decadence to the menu, which serves contemporary—even avant-garde—Italian cuisine. —

Elise Taylor, Vogue, 22 Nov. 2024 The Salix leather boots feature interesting design elements. —

Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 21 Nov. 2024 That hardware is complemented by a sportier design and new elements inside. —

Matt Robison, Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for element

Recent Examples of Synonyms for element

Noun

Three makers of ubiquitous technology components (No. 1 NVIDIA, No. 5 AMD, No. 11 Apple) made the top of the list, as well as a maker of business process software and services (No. 2 ServiceNow) and a cybersecurity company (No. 7 Fortinet).

Heather Newman, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024
Despite sharing many components with the outgoing 360, the F430 most critically featured an entirely new engine.

Christian Gilbertsen, Robb Report, 21 Nov. 2024