Constituent

/kənˈstɪtʃuənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A component or part of something, especially in a political context or in the composition of something.
The constituents of the assembly voiced their concerns about the new proposal.
A voter or member of a constituency.
As a constituent, she had the right to speak to her representative about local issues.
An essential part of a larger whole, especially in the context of chemistry or substances.
Water is a key constituent of all living organisms.
adjective
Serving as a part of something; contributing to the formation of a whole.
The constituent elements of the solution were carefully measured for the experiment.

Etymology

Derived from Middle French 'constituent', from Latin 'constitutivus'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

constituent assembly
An assembly formed to draft or adopt a constitution.
constituent parts
The individual elements that combine to create a whole.
constituent services
Services provided to members of a community or organization.

Related Words

constituency
A body of voters in a specified area who elect a representative.
constitution
A set of fundamental principles according to which a state or organization is governed.

Slang Meanings

Used to refer informally to a group of voters or supporters.
The politician knows he has to keep his constituents happy to get re-elected.