component

noun

1. A smaller, self-contained part of a larger entity. Often refers to a manufactured object that is part of a larger device.

   “A CPU is a component of a computer.”

   “Oxygen levels on Earth skyrocketed 2.4 billion years ago, when cyanobacteria evolved photosynthesis:[…]. The evolutionary precursor of photosynthesis is still under debate, and a new study sheds light. The critical component of the photosynthetic system is the “water-oxidizing complex”, made up of manganese atoms and a calcium atom.”

   “Lying is a key component of communism.”

2. A connected subgraph that is not part of any larger connected subgraph.

adj

1. (not-comparable)Making up a larger whole.

   “a component word”

2. (not-comparable)Made up of smaller complete units in combination.

   “a component stereo”