font
UK: fɒnt | US: fɑːnt
n. a receptacle in a church for holy water, typically made of stone
n. a set of type of one particular face and size (printing)
n. a source or origin of something (archaic/literary)
The word "font" traces back to Latin fons (genitive fontis), meaning "spring" or "source." In Old English, it entered as font, referring to a baptismal water vessel—a metaphorical "source" of spiritual life. Later, in printing, it metaphorically extended to denote a "source" of typefaces. The dual meanings (sacred vessel and typography) reflect the word's journey from literal springs to abstract origins.
The stone font at the church entrance dates back to the 12th century.
She selected a modern font for her presentation slides.
The poet described nature as the font of all inspiration.
The printer replaced the worn-out font with a new set of characters.
In medieval times, the font symbolized purification and rebirth.