Word: Element

Pronunciation

/ˈel·ə·mənt/

Definitions

• Noun: A fundamental, indivisible substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means; a pure chemical substance consisting of one type of atom. For example: “Oxygen is an essential element for life.”

  • In a broader sense, it can also refer to a component or constituent part of something larger. Example: “Teamwork is an essential element of any successful project.”
  • In mathematics, an element is a member of a set or a matrix.
  • In HTML (HyperText Markup Language), an element is a piece of content along with its associated tags and attributes.

• Verb: (archaic) To constitute, make up, or form a part of something. Example: “The various elements compose the universe.”

Phrases

• “Elementary”: Pertaining to basic principles or fundamental concepts.
• “In one’s element”: Comfortable or proficient in a particular environment or situation. Example: “She’s in her element when teaching science.”
• “Elements of nature”: Basic aspects or components of the natural world such as earth, air, fire, and water.
• “Braving the elements”: Enduring harsh weather conditions.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “Carbon is a nonmetallic chemical element.”
• Noun (mathematics): “Each number is an element of the set of real numbers.”
• Noun (HTML): “The <p> tag defines a paragraph element in HTML.”
• Verb (archaic): “His experiences have greatly elemented his character.”

Synonyms

• Constituent
• Component
• Atom
• Particle (in the context of chemistry)
• Factor (in the context of being a part of something larger)
• Ingredient (in the context of making up a whole)

Note: The verb usage of “element” is less common in contemporary English and mostly found in historical texts or specific technical contexts.