English Lexicon

Ingredient

/ɪnˈɡriː.di.ənt/
nounCEFR B1 (Intermediate)Top #2150 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    Any of the foods or substances that are combined to make a particular dish or compound.

    "Check the label to ensure all natural ingredients are listed."
  2. 2

    A component or element that is required to achieve a particular outcome or quality.

    "Trust is a fundamental ingredient of any successful partnership."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'ingredient-' (meaning 'entering into'), from the verb 'ingredi' (to go in, enter), combining 'in-' (into) and 'gradi' (to walk, step). It entered the English language in the early 16th century initially in medical and alchemical contexts before broadening to culinary and general usage.

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