To spout means to send out liquid forcefully in a steady stream. A whale spouts water and air through its blowhole when it surfaces. A broken pipe might spout water across your basement. A teapot spouts hot water through its curved spout when you pour yourself a cup of tea.

The word also describes talking at length in a way that sounds rehearsed or pompous. When someone spouts off about a topic, they're going on and on, often without really listening to others or considering whether anyone wants to hear it. A student might spout facts they memorized without really understanding them. A know-it-all might spout opinions as if they're the only expert in the room.

As a noun, a spout is the tube or opening that directs the flow of liquid, like the narrow part of a watering can or the curved piece on a pitcher. Rain gutters have downspouts that direct water away from your house. The connection between the meanings makes sense: whether it's water from a fountain or words from someone's mouth, spouting means sending something out in a strong, continuous stream.