WELL

n. & v. --n. 1 a shaft sunk into the ground to obtain water, oil, etc. 2 an enclosed space like a well-shaft, e.g. in the middle of a building for stairs or a lift, or for light or ventilation. 3 (foll. by of) a source, esp. a copious one (a well of information). 4 a a mineral spring. b (in pl.) a spa. 5 = ink-well. 6 archaic a water-spring or fountain. 7 Brit. a railed space for solicitors etc. in a lawcourt. 8 a depression for gravy etc. in a dish or tray, or for a mat in the floor. 9 Physics a region of minimum potential etc. --v.intr. (foll. by out, up) spring as from a fountain; flow copiously. øwell-head (or -spring) a source. [OE wella (= OHG wella wave, ON vella boiling heat), wellan boil, melt f. Gmc]