Fontal

/ˈfɒntəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or coming from a font or source, especially as the origin or foundation of something.

Etymology

From Late Latin 'fontalis,' derived from 'fons' meaning 'spring' or 'source.' The root ultimately comes from Proto-Indo-European '*dhent-' related to flowing. The meaning evolved to describe anything originating from a primary source.

Kelly Says

The word 'fontal' appears in medieval theology to describe baptismal fonts as the literal source of spiritual rebirth—so a font wasn't just a basin, it was metaphorically the fountain of Christian life itself.

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