First Known Use: 1645
Dictionary
1component
noun com·po·nent \kəm-ˈpō-nənt, ˈkäm-ˌ, käm-ˈ\
: one of the parts of something (such as a system or mixture) : an important piece of something
Full Definition of COMPONENT
1
: a constituent part : ingredient <an important component of the program> <stereo components>
2
a : any one of the vector terms added to form a vector sum or resultant b : a coordinate of a vector; also : either member of an ordered pair of numbers
— com·po·nen·tial \ˌkäm-pə-ˈnen(t)-shəl\ adjective
See component defined for English-language learners
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Origin of COMPONENT
Latin component-, componens, present participle of componere to put together — more at compound
Related to COMPONENT
- Synonyms
- building block, element, constituent, factor, ingredient, member
- Antonyms
- whole
Synonym Discussion of COMPONENT
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>.
2component
adjective
: helping to make up the whole of something (such as a system or a mixture) : forming or being a part of something
Full Definition of COMPONENT
: serving or helping to constitute : constituent <component parts>
See component defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of COMPONENT
1664
COMPONENTS Defined for Kids
component
noun com·po·nent \kəm-ˈpō-nənt\
Definition of COMPONENT for Kids
: one of the parts or units of a combination, mixture, or system
Medical Dictionary
component
noun com·po·nent \kəm-ˈpō-nənt, ˈkäm-ˌ, käm-ˈ\
Medical Definition of COMPONENT
: a constituent part <the exocrine and endocrine components of the pancreas>
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