The word spring has several meanings:

1. A season of the year between winter and summer when plants begin growing again after the cold months. Trees grow new leaves, flowers bloom, and baby animals are born. In many places, spring brings warmer weather and longer days. People often feel more energetic in spring after the darkness and cold of winter.
2. A coiled piece of metal that bounces back to its original shape after being pressed or stretched. The springs inside a mattress help it feel soft but supportive. A pogo stick uses a strong spring to launch you into the air. When you click a pen, a tiny spring pushes the tip back in. Springs store energy when compressed and release it when let go.
3. To jump or move suddenly and quickly. A cat might spring onto a counter, or you might spring out of bed when you remember it's your birthday. A surprise might make you spring into action. This movement has the same quick, bouncy quality as a metal spring releasing its energy.
4. A natural source of water flowing from the ground. Mountain springs provide fresh, cold water that flows down to form streams and rivers. People have built towns near springs throughout history because of their reliable water supply.