Understanding the Difference Between Font and Fount: History, Usage, and Examples

Font vs. Fount: What Is the Difference?

Sometimes, English words look and sound the same but mean different things. “Font” and “Fount” are two such words. Let’s learn more about them!

Word History

“Font” comes from the French word “fonte,” which means casting. It used to talk about making letters for printing. “Fount” comes from the Old English word “font,” meaning a spring or source of water. It’s like a fountain.

How to Use Them

Here is how you can use these words:

Font

• A “font” is a set of letters and symbols in a style.
• We use “font” when we talk about typing and printing.

Example Sentences

1. I like to use a bold font when writing titles.
2. Please change the font to something easier to read.
3. That font makes the text look fun and happy.
4. This book uses a classic font.
5. Can you print this paper in a different font?

Fount

• A “fount” is a source, often of water or knowledge.
• It is used more in old or formal English.

Example Sentences

1. The wise man is a fount of knowledge.
2. We found a fount of clear water in the forest.
3. Books are a fount of wisdom.
4. This museum is a fount of history.
5. Grandma is a fount of stories about our family.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember, “font” is for typing and printing. It starts with “fon” like “fun” because fun text needs a good style. “Fount” is like a fountain, a source. So think of “water fountain” to remember “fount.”

Summary

“Font” means a set of letters and symbols. Use it when talking about text style. “Fount” means a source of something, like water or knowledge. Use it to talk about where something comes from.

I hope this helps you remember the difference between “font” and “fount.” Happy learning!