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.
It's not surprising that component is related to a Latin word that means "to put together." You simply can't put something together without all of the correct components. Technically speaking, a component is an element of a system or a part of a machine.
The component parts of something are the parts that make it up. First we have to break the system down into its component parts. They manufacture component parts for engines.
A component is a part, element, or ingredient used to form a whole system, object, or process. It is a distinguishable piece that contributes to the functionality or structure of the overall unit.
Definition of component noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.
a basic or fundamental part from which something is made. Electricity a part of a mechanical or electrical system: hi-fi components. adj. [before a noun] being or serving as an element in something larger; constituent: component parts. com•po•nen•tial /ˌkɑmpəˈnɛnʃəl/ adj. See -pon-. See element.
COMPONENT meaning: one of the parts of something (such as a system or mixture) an important piece of something