element
|el/e/ment|
🇺🇸
/ˈɛləmənt/
🇬🇧
/ˈɛlɪmənt/
basic part
Etymology
'element' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'elementum,' where 'ele-' meant 'basic' and '-mentum' meant 'substance.'
'elementum' transformed into the Old French word 'element,' and eventually became the modern English word 'element' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'basic principle or substance,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings, including 'chemical element' and 'component.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a fundamental or essential part of something.
Water is composed of the elements hydrogen and oxygen.
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Noun 2
a substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means.
Gold is a chemical element with the symbol Au.
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Noun 3
a group of people within a larger group, often with a particular characteristic or role.
There is a criminal element in the neighborhood.
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Noun 4
the natural or suitable environment for someone or something.
She was in her element at the party, talking to everyone.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40