Élément.
In mechanics, one of two or more forces (or other vector quantities) acting on a body whose combined effect is represented by a single resultant force. For purposes of calculation, a force may be resolved (see resolution of forces) into components acting at right angles to each other.
1. An abstract part of something:; SYN. constituent, element, factor, ingredient.
2. An artifact that is one of the individual parts of which a composite entity is made up; especially a part that can be separated from or attached to a system.
ETYM French élément, Latin elementum.
1. A component or part.
2. A fundamental or basic unit.
3. One of four substances thought in ancient and medieval cosmology to constitute the physical universe.
4. The most favorable environment for a plant or animal.
5. The situation in which one is happiest and most effective.
6. A straight line that generates a cylinder or cone.
ETYM French ingrédient, Latin ingrediens, -entis, entering into, p. pr. of ingredi, p. p. ingressus, to go into, to enter; pref. in- in + gradi to walk, go. Related to Grade.
1. A component of a mixture or compound.
2. Food that is a component of a mixture in cooking.