# fountain

/ˈfaʊntən/ (US) · /fˈaʊntɪn/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fountain
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. ornamental water feature

noun · CEFR A2

a structure in a garden or park that shoots water into the air.

For teachers: an artificial, typically ornamental structure that jets water into the air or allows it to flow into a basin.

- The children enjoyed throwing coins into the fountain in the middle of the square.
- The city council commissioned a modern fountain for the plaza, featuring synchronized water jets and LED lighting displays.

### 2. a source of something

noun · CEFR B2

a place or person that provides a lot of something, like information or ideas.

For teachers: a figurative source or origin from which something flows in abundance.

- My grandfather is a fountain of knowledge when it comes to local history.
- The professor proved to be a fountain of inspiration for her students, many of whom went on to pursue careers in research.

### 3. drinking water station

noun · CEFR B1 · American English

a machine or device that provides a small stream of water for drinking.

For teachers: a device providing a stream of drinking water, often found in public buildings or schools.

- I stopped at the water fountain in the hallway to fill my bottle.
- The school installed several new drinking fountains equipped with sensors to encourage students to stay hydrated throughout the day.

### 4. to flow out strongly

verb · CEFR C1 · Literary

to flow or spray out quickly and strongly like water from a fountain.

For teachers: to gush, spray, or flow outward in a manner resembling a fountain. Intransitive use.

- Water fountained from the broken pipe, soaking everyone nearby.
- Oil fountained into the air as the drill finally breached the reservoir, marking a successful end to the exploration phase.

## Examples

- The children played near the fountain in the park.
- We met by the large stone fountain in the center of the square to watch the water show.
- The courtyard features an elaborate marble fountain that serves as both a cooling mechanism for the air and a visual centerpiece for the surrounding gardens.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.