noun / verb

source

SORS/sɔːrs/

The origin from which something is obtained.

The spring emerging from the rock is the stream's source.

A stream clearly originates from one freshwater spring emerging from a rock face, flow connecting source to downstream channel.

Etymology

sourceOld Frenchrising; beginning; fountainhead

Old French sourse named a rising or fountainhead. The image of water springing from a starting point connects naturally with the broader meaning of an origin or provider.

In context

Malthus03:51

you talk about overpopulation uh something that many people consider a source of world poverty

Econ Talk with Thomas Sowell part 6 of 8

More examples

Beans are a good source of protein.
The reporter checks the story with two independent sources.
We source our vegetables from nearby farms.

Forms

source · sources · sourced · sourcing

Similar words

origin: Emphasizes where something begins rather than who supplies it.
supplier: Specifically names a person or business that provides goods.
reference: Usually identifies material consulted for information, not a confidential informant.