How Do You Spell FOUNTAINHEAD?

Pronunciation: [fˈa͡ʊntɪnhˌɛd] (IPA)

The correct spelling of the word "fountainhead" is a topic of debate among some individuals. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈfaʊntənˌhɛd/. It is composed of the root word "fountain" and the suffix "-head" denoting a source or origin. The spelling can be confusing due to the two "n" sounds, which are pronounced separately. The first "n" is pronounced with the "ow" sound, while the second "n" is pronounced with the "uh" sound. Despite its challenging spelling, "fountainhead" is a commonly used and recognized word.

FOUNTAINHEAD Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "fountainhead" refers to a source or origin of something, often used to describe an abundant or endless supply. Derived from the combination of "fountain" and "head," it metaphorically depicts a place or entity from which an abundant flow originates.

    In a literal sense, a fountainhead represents a spring, well, or any other natural water source that serves as the starting point of a flow of water. However, this term transcends the literal meaning and is commonly used in a metaphorical sense. It signifies the origin, genesis, or primary source of a concept, ideology, or movement.

    In the realm of creativity and art, a fountainhead conveys the idea of an individual or work that serves as a wellspring of inspiration for others. It exemplifies a person who produces innovative ideas or groundbreaking artistic creations that ignite the imaginations of others.

    In the domain of philosophy, a fountainhead figuratively characterizes an individual who is the primary creator or originator of a school of thought, theory, or intellectual movement. It describes an influential thinker whose ideas or principles spawn a wide range of intellectual developments and inspire subsequent generations of scholars.

    The term "fountainhead" also manifests in a socio-political context, capturing the idea of a vibrant and inexhaustible origin of change or revolution. It alludes to a person, group, or movement that serves as a catalyst for social, political, or cultural transformation, fueling the growth and evolution of society.

    Overall, "fountainhead" embodies the concept of an abundant and inexhaustible source, whether it pertains to water, creativity, ideology, philosophy, or societal change.

  2. Primary source; first beginning.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for FOUNTAINHEAD

  • dountainhead
  • countainhead
  • vountainhead
  • gountainhead
  • tountainhead
  • rountainhead
  • fiuntainhead
  • fkuntainhead
  • fluntainhead
  • fpuntainhead
  • f0untainhead
  • f9untainhead
  • foyntainhead
  • fohntainhead
  • fojntainhead
  • fointainhead
  • fo8ntainhead
  • fountinhead
  • fountanhead
  • Foutanhead
  • fotainhead
  • fouttainhead

Etymology of FOUNTAINHEAD

The word "fountainhead" comes from Middle English, with the term "fountain-heed" appearing around the 14th century. It is a combination of the Old French word "fontaine" meaning "fountain" and the Old English word "heafod" meaning "head". The term "fountainhead" originally referred to the source or origin of a river or stream, but it eventually took on a figurative meaning referring to the origin or principle source of something more abstract, such as ideas, inspiration, or creativity.

Similar spelling words for FOUNTAINHEAD

Plural form of FOUNTAINHEAD is FOUNTAINHEADS

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