ingredient

noun

in·​gre·​di·​ent in-ˈgrē-dē-ənt 

: something that enters into a compound or is a component part of any combination or mixture : constituent

ingredient adjective

Synonyms

• building block
• component
• constituent
• element
• factor
• member

Choose the Right Synonym for ingredient

element, component, constituent, ingredient 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

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

constituent stresses its essential and formative character.

the constituents of a chemical compound

ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture.

the ingredients of a cocktail

Examples of ingredient in a Sentence

He uses only the finest ingredients in his cooking.

the ingredients of a salad

the ingredients in the soap

Honesty is an essential ingredient of a successful marriage.

The show has all the ingredients needed to attract a large audience.

Recent Examples on the Web

This should include everyone—from suppliers of ingredients and packaging to the manufacturers of goods and from design agencies to the third-party distributors and retailers that sell your products and services. —Santhi Ramesh, Forbes, 16 Dec. 2024

Otherwise, its ingredients list is rounded out by sugar, cocoa butter, cocoa powder, and soy lecithin, an emulsifier. —Sam Stone, Bon Appétit, 16 Dec. 2024

The ingredients, organic to a fault, read like a proto-induction into the proudly wholesome appetites of the bourgeoisie. —Anthony Lane, The New Yorker, 16 Dec. 2024

Combine punch ingredients and chill: Add cranberry juice, ginger beer, lime juice, and brandy to punch bowl and stir to combine. —Tiffany Vickers Davis, Southern Living, 15 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin ingredient-, ingrediens, present participle of ingredi to go into, from in- + gradi to go — more at grade entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

ingredient

noun

in·​gre·​di·​ent in-ˈgrēd-ē-ənt 

: one of the substances that make up a mixture

ingredients of a salad

Medical Definition

ingredient

noun

in·​gre·​di·​ent in-ˈgrēd-ē-ənt 

: something that enters into a compound or is a component part of any combination or mixture

formula which will have just about the same ingredients as mother's milk

—Morris Fishbein

ingredient adjective