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 Glycolic acid is another ingredient that helps increase cell turnover, which aids in pigmentation improvement. —

Kiana Murden, Vogue, 7 Feb. 2025 The ingredient quantities are massive and serve 12 but can easily be scaled back for smaller portions. —

Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Feb. 2025 One key ingredient in that approach is to be open to changes, and to listen. —

Sheriff Ahmed, Twin Cities, 6 Feb. 2025 To make the drink, add all ingredients into a shaker, mixing with a bar spoon or regular spoon. —

Ingu Chen, Vogue, 27 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for ingredient

Recent Examples of Synonyms for ingredient

Noun

Producing almost anything, anywhere, requires resources and components that cannot be found within the borders of any one country, even America.

— Ned Temko, The Christian Science Monitor, 6 Feb. 2025
Norton and Intego, in particular, offer firewall protection and other security components beyond the basics of malware protection.

— PCMAG, PCMAG, 6 Feb. 2025