spring
UK: /sprɪŋ/ | US: /sprɪŋ/
n. 1. The season between winter and summer, marked by new growth and warmer weather.
n. 2. A natural source of water flowing from the ground.
n. 3. A flexible coil or strip of metal that returns to its original shape after being compressed or stretched.
v. 4. To move suddenly or jump upward or forward.
v. 5. To originate or arise from a source.
The word "spring" traces back to Old English springan, meaning "to leap, burst forth, or fly up," derived from Proto-Germanic sprengan. Its seasonal sense emerged in the 16th century, metaphorically reflecting nature's "leaping" back to life. The mechanical sense (coil) arose in the 15th century, inspired by the idea of elastic recoil. The water source meaning (from "springing" groundwater) dates to Old English.
Flowers bloom everywhere in spring.
We drank fresh water from a mountain spring.
The mattress uses high-quality springs for support.
The cat can spring three feet into the air.
Many traditions spring from ancient rituals.