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.
Phrases and idioms:
in (or out of) one's element in (or out of) one's accustomed or preferred surroundings. reduced to its elements analysed.
Etymology: ME f. OF f. L elementum
Useful english dictionary. 2012.