ingredient

word

/ˌɪnˈɡɹidiənt/
in-GREE-dee-uhnt
/ɪnɡɹˈiːdiənt/
in-GREE-dee-uhnt

Definition

An ingredient is a single item or substance used to make a dish, or any of the materials needed to create something.

Usage & Nuances

Commonly used for food recipes, but can also refer to essential parts of non-food items (like 'an ingredient for success'). Often follows 'main', 'key', or 'secret'—e.g., 'main ingredient'.

Example Sentences

The cake has three main ingredients: flour, eggs, and sugar.

basic

Please check the list of ingredients before you buy the product.

basic

What's the secret ingredient that makes your pasta taste so good?

natural

Each culture uses different ingredients in their traditional dishes.

natural

Hard work is a key ingredient of success.

natural

Salt is an important ingredient in this soup.

basic