element

noun

1. A basic or essential part of something larger, such as a system, plan, or situation.

   A2

   countable

   • "Water is an essential element of life."A2
   • "Trust is an important element of a good friendship."B1

2. A basic chemical substance that cannot be divided into simpler substances by ordinary chemical methods.

   B1

   countable

   • "Oxygen is an element in air and water."B1
   • "The periodic table lists all the known chemical elements."B2

3. The natural environment or conditions in which a person, animal, or thing lives or operates.

   B2

   usually singular; often in the phrase "in one's element"

   • "The sea is the dolphin's natural element."B2
   • "She was in her element at the conference, where she could discuss science with other experts."C1