As described in historical dictionaries

An Etymological Dictionary of Family and Christian Names (1857)

Originally De Fonte or De Fontibus (Fountain), from the springs or fountains near which they resided.

Arthur, William (1857) An Etymological Dictionary of Family and Christian Names. New York: Sheldon, Blakeman. Public Domain.


Patronymica Britannica (1860)

FOUNTAIN. From residence near one — like the Fr. De la Fontaine.

Lower, Mark A (1860) Patronymica Britannica: a dictionary of the family names of the United Kingdom. London: J.R. Smith. Public Domain.


Surname type: Location or geographical feature

Origin: English

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: England

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: English

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