The term 'POT COMPONENT' is composed of three crossword solutions: ANTE (4 letters), CHIP (4 letters), and THC (3 letters). ANTE is a Latin word meaning 'BEFORE' or 'in front of'. It is commonly used in poker to refer to the money that players must put into the pot BEFORE the game begins. CHIP is a small, flat piece of material, usually made of plastic or clay, that is used as currency in casinos and other gambling establishments. THC is an abbreviation for tetrahydrocannabinol, which is the main psychoactive component of cannabis. It is responsible for the majority of the effects associated with marijuana use.