What is similar about the ancient and modern definitions of the word 'elements'?

Both ancient and modern definitions of 'elements' refer to fundamental components that constitute a larger system. In ancient philosophy, elements like earth, water, air, and fire were seen as the basic substances of the natural world. Modern science defines elements as pure substances consisting of one type of atom, which combine to form all matter. Despite the shift in understanding, the core idea of elements as essential building blocks remains consistent.