ˈelɪmənt n. 1 a
component part; a contributing
factor or
thing. 2 Chem. &
Physics any of
the hundred or so substances
that cannot be
resolved by
chemical means into simpler substances. 3 a any of the
four substances (earth,
water,
air,
and fire) in ancient and
medieval philosophy. b any of
these as a being's
natural abode or
environment. 4 Electr. a
resistance wire that heats up in an
electric heater,
cooker,
etc.; an
electrode. 5 (in pl.) atmospheric agencies,
esp. wind and
storm. 6 (in pl.) the rudiments of
learning or of a
branch of
knowledge. 7 (in pl.) the
bread and
wine of the
Eucharist. 8
Math. &
Logic an
entity that is a
single member of a set. øin (or
out of) one's element in (or out of) one's
accustomed or preferred
surroundings. reduced to
its elements analysed. [ME f. OF f. L elementum]