component
English meaning: Component
Definition
A smaller, self-contained part of a larger entity. Often refers to a manufactured object that is part of a larger device.
Example
“A CPU is a component of a computer.”
Another example: “Trust is a crucial component of any successful partnership.”
Usage — When, Where & How
A noun for a self-contained part of a larger whole, common in engineering, electronics, software and physics ('vector component'). Often used attributively ('component parts'). Slightly technical register.
Etymology & Origin
English — Origin & History
From Latin 'componens', present participle of 'componere' ('to put together'), from the 17th century.
Synonyms
- element
- constituent
- part
- factor
- portion
- ingredient
- component part
Antonyms / Opposites
- whole
- entirety
Related Words
Common Collocations
- key component
- essential component
- component parts
- hardware component
- main component
- software component
Word Forms
component (n); components (pl); component (adj)
Word Tools
Literary Heritage
“To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.”
/To thine own self be true/
“Be honest with yourself — and as naturally as night follows day, you will be unable to be false to others.”
“I'm nobody! Who are you? Are you nobody, too?”
/I'm nobody! Who are you?/
“I am nobody — and that quiet anonymity is more honest than the noise of public fame.”
Images
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Language information
- Language
- English
- English
- Script
- Latin
- Family
- Indo-European
- Speakers
- 1.5B