fountain
n. · v.-
1 ornamental water feature (n.) A2 Elementarya structure in a garden or park that shoots water into the air.
an artificial, typically ornamental structure that jets water into the air or allows it to flow into a basin.
ExampleThe children enjoyed throwing coins into the fountain in the middle of the square.
ExampleThe city council commissioned a modern fountain for the plaza, featuring synchronized water jets and LED lighting displays.
- water feature
- jet
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2 a source of something (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatea place or person that provides a lot of something, like information or ideas.
a figurative source or origin from which something flows in abundance.
ExampleMy grandfather is a fountain of knowledge when it comes to local history.
ExampleThe professor proved to be a fountain of inspiration for her students, many of whom went on to pursue careers in research.
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3 drinking water station (n.) B1 Intermediate American Englisha machine or device that provides a small stream of water for drinking.
a device providing a stream of drinking water, often found in public buildings or schools.
ExampleI stopped at the water fountain in the hallway to fill my bottle.
ExampleThe school installed several new drinking fountains equipped with sensors to encourage students to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- drinking fountain
- water fountain
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4 to flow out strongly (v.) C1 Advanced Literaryto flow or spray out quickly and strongly like water from a fountain.
to gush, spray, or flow outward in a manner resembling a fountain. Intransitive use.
ExampleWater fountained from the broken pipe, soaking everyone nearby.
ExampleOil fountained into the air as the drill finally breached the reservoir, marking a successful end to the exploration phase.
From Middle English [Term?]; from Old French fontaine (whence modern fontaine); from Late Latin fontana, from Latin fontanus, fontaneus, adjectives from fons (“source, spring”).