Definition

A main source or origin of something, often used to describe a place or person that provides ideas or inspiration.

Example

The university is considered the fountainhead of innovative research in technology.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about the concept of a fountainhead in philosophy?

Not really, what do you mean by that?

It's interesting how some ideas can be the fountainhead for entire movements.

That's true, like how certain thinkers influence so many others.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fountainhead → It is formed from "fountain" (from Old French *fontaine*, meaning a spring or source of water) and "head" (from Old English *heafod*, meaning the top or source). The word "fountainhead" refers to the original source or spring of something, particularly water.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'fountain' as a source of water and 'head' as the top or origin — together, they remind you that a fountainhead is the original source of something.

Visually Confused Words