Component Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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component
[kəmˈpəʊnənt ]
Definitions
software development
A component is a reusable and independent part of a system that serves a specific function. Components help in modularizing the codebase and promoting reusability.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| component |
Typically used in technical or mechanical contexts to describe a piece of a larger system or machine.
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| module |
Commonly used in educational or technological contexts to describe a self-contained unit that can function independently but is part of a larger system or course.
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| element |
Often used in scientific, mathematical, or general contexts to refer to a basic or essential part of something. It can also be used in a more abstract sense.
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| part |
Widely used in everyday language to refer to any piece or segment of a whole, and can be used in most contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The login component handles the authentication process.
- Each button on the webpage is a separate component.
hardware
In hardware, a component refers to a physical part or device that makes up a larger system. Components can include things like processors, memory modules, and graphics cards.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| component |
When referring to one part of a larger system or machine, especially in the context of engineering or electronics.
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| element |
Typically used in more abstract contexts to refer to a fundamental part of something larger, such as a system, process, or concept.
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| part |
A general term that can refer to any piece or section of something larger. It's often used in everyday conversations.
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| device |
Used when talking about a piece of equipment or a tool that has a particular purpose or function.
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Examples of usage
- The motherboard is a crucial component in any computer system.
- The screen is a key component of a smartphone.
mathematics
In mathematics, a component is a connected part of a graph or a vector. Components help in understanding the structure and relationships within a mathematical system.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| component |
Typically used in technical or specialized contexts to refer to a smaller, individual part of a system, device, or structure.
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| segment |
Often used to denote a specific, identifiable piece or section of something that is usually larger and possibly divided, like markets, populations, or physical objects.
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| part |
A very general term that can be used in most situations to describe an unspecified piece or section of something larger.
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| division |
Commonly used to describe the act of separating something into parts or sections, often within organizational or administrative settings.
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Examples of usage
- The largest component of the graph contains the majority of the vertices.
- Each vector component represents a different dimension.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In biology, components of a cell, like the nucleus and mitochondria, each serve specific functions crucial for life.
- In chemistry, molecules can be seen as components of compounds, with each element playing a vital role in the compound's properties.
Technology
- In computer science, a software component is a reusable portion of software that can be integrated within a bigger system.
- In engineering, components like gears, circuits, and motors are essential for creating machines and devices.
Art
- In music, different instruments are components of a band, each contributing to a more complex sound.
- In visual arts, colors and shapes act as components that come together to create a full painting or sculpture.
Education
- Curriculum components include subjects, learning objectives, and assessments that collectively shape a student’s learning experience.
- In project-based learning, each team member can be a component of the group, with individual contributions leading to a successful project.
Origin of 'component'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'componentem', which means 'to put together'.
- In the late 14th century, it started being used in English to refer to elements that are joined or combined.
The word 'component' originated from the Latin word 'componentem', which means 'a putting together'. The term has been used in various fields such as software development, hardware design, and mathematics to describe essential parts or elements of a system. Components play a crucial role in creating complex systems by breaking them down into manageable and reusable parts.
See also: components.