Definition of component

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< compo

comport >

com·po·nent    (km-pnnt) KEY 

NOUN:

1. A constituent element, as of a system. See Synonyms at element.
2. A part of a mechanical or electrical complex.
3. Mathematics One of a set of two or more vectors having a sum equal to a given vector.
4. Any of the minimum number of substances required to specify completely the composition of all phases of a chemical system.

ADJECTIVE:

Being or functioning as a constituent or an ingredient.

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ETYMOLOGY:
From Latin compnns, compnent- present participle of compnere, to put together : com-, com- + pnere, to put; see apo- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
compo·nential  (kmp-nnshl) KEY (Adjective)