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Fountain Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fountain

[ˈfaʊntən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

decorative feature

A fountain is a structure that sends water into the air in a decorative way, usually in a garden or public place. Fountains can be elaborate or simple in design and are often used to enhance the beauty of a space.

Synonyms

spray fountain, water feature.

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Word Description / Examples
fountain

A structure that sends water into the air, often seen in public places like parks, squares, and gardens. Suitable for describing traditional water structures.

  • The fountain in the city square is beautifully illuminated at night.
  • Children love to play around the fountain in the park.
water feature

Any design element involving water, including fountains, ponds, waterfalls, and streams, often used in gardens and landscaping to add aesthetic appeal.

  • Their backyard includes a beautiful water feature with a small waterfall and pond.
  • The new office building has an elegant water feature in its lobby.
spray fountain

A type of fountain that emits water in a fine spray, often used for decorative purposes or in water parks for playful activities.

  • The spray fountain at the water park is one of the kids' favorite attractions.
  • They installed a new spray fountain in the community garden for a refreshing effect.

Examples of usage

  • The fountain in the park is a popular spot for people to gather and relax.
  • The sound of the water from the fountain is soothing and calming.
Context #2 | Noun

water source

A fountain can also refer to a natural spring of water that flows to the surface from underground. These fountains are often found in natural settings like forests or mountains.

Synonyms

spring, water source.

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Word Description / Examples
fountain

This word is commonly used to describe a decorative structure where water flows or sprays from, often found in gardens, parks, or public squares.

  • The children played near the fountain in the park
  • The city installed a new fountain in the central square
spring

This word is used to refer to a natural source of water coming from the ground, often associated with fresh and clean water. It can also imply a small natural flow of water emerging from the earth.

  • We found a beautiful spring while hiking in the mountains
  • The villagers collect drinking water from a nearby spring
water source

This term is more general and is used to describe any location where water can be accessed, such as a river, lake, reservoir, or even a well. It often appears in environmental, engineering, or planning contexts.

  • The main water source for the town is the nearby lake
  • Identifying new water sources is crucial for the growing city

Examples of usage

  • The hikers found a crystal-clear fountain in the middle of the forest.
  • The fountain provided fresh water for the village.
Context #3 | Verb

to gush out

To fountain means to gush out or flow like a fountain. It is often used to describe liquids or emotions that come out rapidly and forcefully.

Synonyms

gush, spout.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fountain

A fountain is typically a decorative structure that sprays water into the air, often found in parks, gardens, and public squares.

  • The children played around the fountain in the park
  • The town center has a beautiful stone fountain
gush

Gush describes a sudden, powerful flow of liquid, often used to describe emotions or liquids like water or blood. It can have a figurative use as well.

  • Water gushed out of the broken pipe
  • She gushed with excitement when she saw her favorite actor
spout

Spout can mean a stream of liquid flowing out with force from a narrow opening, or it can refer to expressing something continuously and energetically. It sometimes carries a negative connotation when describing speech.

  • Water spouted from the whale's blowhole
  • He kept spouting off his opinions without listening to anyone else

Examples of usage

  • Tears began to fountain from her eyes as she spoke about her loss.
  • The water fountain in the garden fountained up into the air.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Significance

  • Fountains have been used since ancient civilizations, like the Greeks and Romans, to showcase engineering skills and beautify cities.
  • The famous Trevi Fountain in Rome is a historic example, attracting visitors who toss coins for good luck.

Art and Architecture

  • Fountains are often considered a form of public art, with intricate designs ranging from simple to highly ornate.
  • In gardens, fountains serve as focal points, designed to create a tranquil atmosphere with the sound of flowing water.

Cultural Practices

  • In many cultures, fountains symbolize life and renewal, often found in places of worship or community gatherings.
  • In modern times, fountains are popular in parks and plazas, serving as meeting points and places to relax.

Modern Technology

  • Water fountains in schools and public places have advanced to include features like automatic sensors for hygiene.
  • Some modern fountains use LED lights and music to create spectacular displays, combining art with technology.

Origin of 'fountain'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'fons,' meaning 'source of water,' highlighting its role in providing fresh water.
  • In Middle English, it was spelled 'fountayne,' emphasizing its connection to springs and natural water sources.

The word 'fountain' originated from the Latin word 'fontanus', which means 'of a spring or fountain'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century to refer to a source of water. Fountains have been used for both practical and decorative purposes throughout history, with elaborate fountains being popular in ancient civilizations like Rome and Greece.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,562 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.