source
/sɔːs/
The word centers on the concept of origin and traceability. It is the point of departure—the 'wellspring' from which everything else flows, whether that be water, information, or a physical product. In an informational context, it carries a strong connotation of authority and verification. A "source" isn't just any piece of data; it is the evidence or witness that validates a claim. In journalism, this often implies a layer of secrecy or privileged access. When used as a verb, it shifts from a passive point of origin to an active process of procurement. It suggests a deliberate choice in selection, often emphasizing the quality, ethics, or geography of where materials are obtained.
Countable when referring to a specific person providing a tip ('a reliable source') or a particular document used for research. Uncountable when referring to the general origin of something, such as the starting point of a river.
💬Casual Conversation
I'm hitting a wall with these numbers. What's the source for the client feedback?
Let me leverage my network. I'll circle back once I track down the original source.
Meanings
The place, person, or thing from which something originates or can be obtained.
"The river has its source in the mountains."
A person, publication, or document that provides information.
"The journalist refused to reveal her anonymous source."
To obtain from a particular place or supplier.
"The company sources its raw materials from sustainable farms."
Collocations & Compounds
source code
The human-readable instructions written by a programmer that form a computer program.
The company decided to make its source code open to the public.
primary source
An original document or artifact created at the time under study.
The historian found a primary source that shed new light on the event.
source material
The original writings or information from which something (like a book or film) is derived.
The movie is based on source material from a classic novel.
source of income
The way in which someone regularly gets money.
His investments are his main source of income.
data source
A place or system from which data can be obtained.
We need to verify the reliability of this data source.
Phrasal Verbs
source out
to search for and find a supplier or piece of information
The procurement team is trying to source out a cheaper alternative for the plastic casing.
Idioms & Sayings
go to the source
To get information directly from the person or place where it originated.
If you want the real story, you should go to the source.
follow the money source
To investigate the origin of funds, especially in a criminal or suspicious context.
The detective decided to follow the money source to uncover the corruption.
Etymology
The word 'source' entered English in the late 14th century from Old French 'source' or 'sorce', meaning 'a spring, a welling up'. This, in turn, came from the Vulgar Latin 'sorcium' or 'superiectum', meaning 'something thrown over'. The ultimate origin is from the Latin verb 'surgere', meaning 'to rise'. Initially, it referred to the origin of a river or stream, and later expanded to mean any origin or starting point, whether literal or figurative.