fountain

[/ˈfaʊntən/]

nounfemininepl: fountains / fontes

fonte

1. A structure or device that spurts water for ornamental purposes or public use

The city's central fountain is a popular gathering place.

A fonte central da cidade é um local de encontro popular.

2. A spring or source of water; natural water source

The mountain fountain feeds the valley below.

A fonte da montanha alimenta o vale abaixo.

3. A source or origin of something abstract

She is a fountain of knowledge and wisdom.

Ela é uma fonte de conhecimento e sabedoria.

4. A device that dispenses drinking water

Students drink water from the fountain during recess.

Os alunos bebem água da fonte durante o recreio.

Synonyms

Regional Variations

General Brazilian

fonte

Most common term for both ornamental fountains and water sources

Rio de Janeiro

fonte

Standard usage; chafariz for large public fountains

São Paulo

fonte

Standard usage; bebedouro for drinking water fountains

Portugal

fonte

Standard usage; chafariz for monumental public fountains

fountain of youth - a legendary source of eternal youth

fountain of knowledge - a person or resource with vast knowledge

drinking fountain - public water dispenser

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