prototype

pro·to·type

noun \ˈprō-tə-ˌtīp\

Definition of PROTOTYPE

1

: an original model on which something is patterned : archetype

2

: an individual that exhibits the essential features of a later type

3

: a standard or typical example

4

: a first full-scale and usually functional form of a new type or design of a construction (as an airplane)

Examples of PROTOTYPE

1. They tested the prototype of the car.
2. He is developing a prototype for his invention.
3. He is the prototype of a conservative businessman.
4. The Sherlock Holmes stories are the prototypes of modern detective stories.

Origin of PROTOTYPE

French, from Greek prōtotypon, from neuter of prōtotypos archetypal, from prōt- + typos type

First Known Use: 1552

Related to PROTOTYPE

Synonyms: case, exemplar, exemplification, illustration, instance, example, representative, sample, specimen

Antonyms: descendant (also descendent)

Related Words: archetype, classic, locus classicus, paradigm; cross section, microcosm; evidence, indication, manifestation, sign

Near Antonyms: by-product, derivative, offshoot, outgrowth, spin-off; daughter, son

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Rhymes with PROTOTYPE

allotype, ambrotype, archetype, calotype, collotype, corncob pipe, Dutchman's-pipe, ecotype, ferrotype, genotype, guttersnipe, haplotype, holotype, Linotype, liripipe, logotype, monotype, neotype, overripe, serotype, stenotype, Teletype, tuning pipe