headspring

/ˈhɛdˌsprɪŋ/
noun
  1. The source or origin of a stream or river.
    • Geologists studied the headspring to understand the local water system.
    • The headspring of the river is a small pool fed by melting snow.
    • The hikers followed the stream up to its headspring in the mountains.
  2. A primary source or origin of something abstract, such as an idea or movement.
    • Her childhood experiences were the headspring of her passion for teaching.
    • The ancient texts are considered the headspring of Western philosophy.
    • The Renaissance was the headspring of modern art and science.
Antonyms
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