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Component: meaning, definitions and examples

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component

 

[ kəmˈpəʊnənt ]

Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

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

element, module, part.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
component

Typically used in technical or mechanical contexts to describe a piece of a larger system or machine.

  • The engine is made up of several key components
  • Each component of the software was tested separately
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.

  • The course is divided into ten modules
  • We need to replace the faulty module in the device
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.

  • Hydrogen is an element on the periodic table
  • Trust is an essential element of a healthy relationship
part

Widely used in everyday language to refer to any piece or segment of a whole, and can be used in most contexts.

  • I need to replace a part of my bike
  • That’s my favorite part of the movie

Examples of usage

  • The login component handles the authentication process.
  • Each button on the webpage is a separate component.
Context #2 | Noun

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

device, element, part.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
component

When referring to one part of a larger system or machine, especially in the context of engineering or electronics.

  • The motherboard is an essential component of a computer
  • Engineers tested each component of the new device
element

Typically used in more abstract contexts to refer to a fundamental part of something larger, such as a system, process, or concept.

  • Water is an essential element of life
  • The decision-making process involves several key elements
part

A general term that can refer to any piece or section of something larger. It's often used in everyday conversations.

  • The mechanic replaced the broken part in the engine
  • I love this part of the movie
device

Used when talking about a piece of equipment or a tool that has a particular purpose or function.

  • She bought a new fitness tracking device
  • The doctor used a special device to examine his eyes

Examples of usage

  • The motherboard is a crucial component in any computer system.
  • The screen is a key component of a smartphone.
Context #3 | Noun

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

division, part, segment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
component

Typically used in technical or specialized contexts to refer to a smaller, individual part of a system, device, or structure.

  • The motherboard is a crucial component of a computer.
  • Each component of the machine must be functioning properly.
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.

  • The company is targeting a new segment of the market.
  • He divided the orange into segments.
part

A very general term that can be used in most situations to describe an unspecified piece or section of something larger.

  • This is just part of the problem.
  • I need to buy a replacement part for my car.
division

Commonly used to describe the act of separating something into parts or sections, often within organizational or administrative settings.

  • The company is undergoing a major division of its assets.
  • There is a clear division between the different departments.

Examples of usage

  • The largest component of the graph contains the majority of the vertices.
  • Each vector component represents a different dimension.

Translations

Translations of the word "component" in other languages:

🇵🇹 componente

🇮🇳 घटक

🇩🇪 Komponente

🇮🇩 komponen

🇺🇦 компонент

🇵🇱 komponent

🇯🇵 コンポーネント

🇫🇷 composant

🇪🇸 componente

🇹🇷 bileşen

🇰🇷 구성 요소

🇸🇦 مكوّن

🇨🇿 komponent

🇸🇰 komponent

🇨🇳 组件

🇸🇮 komponenta

🇮🇸 hlutur

🇰🇿 құраушы

🇬🇪 კომპონენტი

🇦🇿 komponent

🇲🇽 componente

Etymology

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.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,755, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.