ingredient
UK: ɪnˈɡriːdiənt | US: ɪnˈɡridiənt
n. a component part or element of something (especially in cooking or chemistry)
n. a contributing factor in a process or situation
Derived from Latin ingrediens (present participle of ingredi "to step into, enter"), composed of in- (into) + gradi (to step, go). The root gradi also gives rise to words like "grade" and "gradual." Over time, "ingredient" evolved from the literal sense of "entering into" to metaphorically describe components that "enter into" a mixture or process.
Flour is a key ingredient in baking bread.
Trust is an essential ingredient for a successful relationship.
The recipe lists all the ingredients in precise measurements.
Scientists analyzed the active ingredients in the medicine.
Creativity is a vital ingredient in problem-solving.