Definition of constituentnext

constituent

2 of 2

adjective

Synonym Chooser

How is the word constituent distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of constituent are component, element, and ingredient. While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," constituent stresses its essential and formative character.

the constituents of a chemical compound

How are the words component and constituent related?

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

When is it sensible to use element instead of constituent?

While the synonyms element and constituent are close in meaning, element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity.

the basic elements of geometry

When is ingredient a more appropriate choice than constituent?

Although the words ingredient and constituent have much in common, ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture.

the ingredients of a cocktail

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 constituent
Noun
This helps explain why the market has had narrow leadership of late, with many stocks underneath the hood struggling; more than half of the S & P 500’s constituents are trading below their 200-day average . — Zev Fima, CNBC, 30 Sep. 2026 Even the constituents of atoms—the protons and neutrons that make up atomic nuclei—couldn’t immediately coalesce. — Clara Moskowitz, Scientific American, 28 Sep. 2026
Adjective
Metreweli attended Westminster School in London and then studied social anthropology at Pembroke College, one of the constituent colleges of the University of Cambridge. — Nick Tabor, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 June 2026 Is constituent data consistent across programs? — Penta Rao Marapatla, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for constituent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constituent
Noun
  • And last December, after an already enviable year, Winter became the newest member of this exclusive club.
    — Walden Green, Pitchfork, 9 Oct. 2026
  • According to Tulsa World, the show stopped after just two songs and keyboardist Jonathan Cain addressed the crowd after all the other band members left the stage.
    — Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 9 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Believe it or not, the Cubivan Camping System wasn't the only multi-component camper pod system at this year's Caravan Salon built to slide out and camp outside the van itself.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 16 Sep. 2026
  • In a renowned 2006 review published in Educational Research Review, researchers traced how working memory evolved from a simple storage system into a more dynamic, multi-component process.
    — Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026
Noun
  • Secondly, the breakfast sandwich blended the savoriness, spiciness, and cheesiness of its ingredients perfectly.
    — Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 3 Oct. 2026
  • Monster Energy said in a statement that caffeine and other drink ingredients are found in a broad range of food products.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 3 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • At the new store, stylists will work one-on-one with clients to build wardrobes for work, travel and special occasions, guided by an understanding of individual style and the craftsmanship and versatility of each piece.
    — Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Controlling and monitoring individual cells has also illuminated neurological diseases, such as Parkinson's and epilepsy.
    — Jackie Flynn Mogensen, Scientific American, 5 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • One of the most jarring elements of Baird’s documentary — as with most nonfiction projects about Palestinians released in the last few years — is how much of the language featured in the film echoes the contemporary moment.
    — Lovia Gyarkye, HollywoodReporter, 4 Oct. 2026
  • Colman was dressed in another suiting moment that incorporated casual elements like oversized jeans.
    — Amina Ayoud, Footwear News, 4 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Climate change was considered a factor in the December 2021 wildfire that destroyed Somauroo's home, after the county's suit was originally filed.
    — LINDSAY WHITEHURST, Arkansas Online, 4 Oct. 2026
  • Some experts point to worsening public health since the 2008 financial crisis, citing factors such as growing obesity, long hospital waiting times, the cost-of-living crisis and other social causes.
    — The Week UK, TheWeek, 4 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Constituent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constituent. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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