noun / adjective

component

kum-POH-nunt/kəmˈpəʊnənt/

A part that makes up a larger whole.

The small gear is a component of the larger clock mechanism.

One small gear separated just above its matching position inside simple clock mechanism, obvious part of a larger whole, no arrows or labels.

Etymology

comLatintogether

+ponLatinto place

+entLatinpresent participle ending

“Placing together” gives the image of assembling a whole from several parts. A component is one of the constituent elements that enter into that whole.

In context

Professor Dave Explains0:34

One component of this force is the normal force, which is perpendicular to the surface. There is also a component of this force that is parallel to the surface, and this is called the frictional force

Frictional Forces: Static and Kinetic

More examples

Trust is a key component of a strong friendship.
The kit contains all the components needed to build a shelf.
She takes the machine apart and cleans its component parts.

Forms

component · components

Similar words

part: A broader word for any portion, piece, or segment.
element: Often emphasizes a basic or essential part of something.
ingredient: Usually names something combined with others in food or mixtures.