prototype

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noun

Definition of PROTOTYPE

1

one of a group or collection that shows what the whole is like <a literary character who is universally regarded as the ultimate prototype of the spoiled, willful Southern belle>

Synonyms case, exemplar, exemplification, illustration, instance, prototype, representative, sample, specimen

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

2

something belonging to an earlier time from which something else was later developed <the Greek epic that is the prototype of the hero myth>

Synonyms antecedent, archetype, daddy, foregoer, forerunner, granddaddy (also grandaddy), precursor, predecessor, prototype

Related Words model, original; originator, sire; father, mother

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

Antonyms descendant (also descendent)

3

something from which copies are made <the manufacturer exhaustively tested the prototype of the vehicle before approving production>

Synonyms archetype, prototype

Related Words source; example, mold, paradigm, pattern; beau ideal, classic, exemplar, ideal, model, nonpareil, paragon; blueprint, draft

Near Antonyms copy, imitation, replica, reproduction; counterfeit, fake, forgery, sham