Emily Dickinson Lexicon

IN-GRE'DI-ENT, n. [Fr. from L. ingrediens, entering into; ingredior; in and gradior. See Grade.]

That which enters into a compound, or is a component part of any compound or mixture. It is particularly applied to the simples in medicinal compositions, but admits of a very general application. We say, an ointment or a decoction is composed of certain ingredients; and Addison wondered that learning was not thought a proper ingredient in the education of a woman of quality or fortune.