American English

How to pronounce element

nounB1Very common word
EHluhmnt

/ˈɛ.lə.mn̩t̚/

3 syllables · Stress the first syllable.

A basic part of something larger, such as a machine, plan, or design.

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Meanings & examples

noun

A basic part of something larger, such as a machine, plan, or design.

Trust is an important element of a good relationship.

The camera is a key element of the security system.

Common phrases & grammar

key element · essential element · element of a design

an element of + noun

a key element in + noun

nountechnical

A basic substance made of only one kind of atom, such as oxygen or gold.

Oxygen is a chemical element.

Gold is a valuable element found in nature.

Common phrases & grammar

chemical element · periodic table · heavy element

a chemical element called + name

the element with + number

noun

A part or quality that helps create a situation or result.

There was an element of risk in the decision.

Humor adds an important element to the show.

Common phrases & grammar

element of surprise · human element · important element

there is an element of + noun

an element of + noun

nountechnicalless common

One item in a set, list, or group, especially in mathematics or computing.

Each element in the list has a number.

The program checks every element in the array.

Common phrases & grammar

element of a set · array element · list element

each element in + noun

the first element of + noun

Useful expressions

in your element

Doing something that you are very good at and enjoy.

Maria is in her element when she is teaching.

the elements

The forces of nature, especially bad weather.

The hikers were exposed to the elements.

an element of surprise

Something unexpected that makes an event more exciting or effective.

The party had an element of surprise.

Related words & forms