noun
wellspring
Wellspring (noun) means the place where the water of a spring or stream first rises.
noun
1
The place where the water of a spring or stream first rises.
2
A continual source of something; an origin of supply, or a resource.
"Krapp’s Last Tape has been acted by prisoners in San Quentin and made into a chamber opera. It goes to the wellspring of an actor. Well, most of the time: when Albert Finney played the part, Beckett went to sleep in rehearsals."
— Susannah Clapp, Gary Oldman is extraordinary in Krapp’s Last Tape (2025)
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Etymology
Came into English from Middle English wellespring, from Old English wiellspring, wiellġespring (“spring, fount, fountain”), corresponding to well plus spring. See also well and spring.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of wellspring?
"wellspring" (noun) means the place where the water of a spring or stream first rises.
What is another word for wellspring?
Other words for "wellspring" include wellhead, well, fountainhead.
What are the different meanings of wellspring?
"wellspring" has 2 main meanings: 1. The place where the water of a spring or stream first rises; 2. A continual source of something; an origin of supply, or a resource.
