Толковый словарь английского языка Oxford English Reference - element

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. 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