prototype
noun
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The prefix prot-, or proto-, comes from Greek and has the basic meaning "first in time" or "first formed." A prototype is someone or something that serves as a model or inspiration for those that come later. A successful fund-raising campaign can serve as a prototype for future campaigns. The legendary Robin Hood, the "prototypical" kindhearted and honorable outlaw, has been the inspiration for countless other romantic heroes. And for over a century, Vincent van Gogh has been the prototype of the brilliant, tortured artist who is unappreciated in his own time.
Examples of prototype in a Sentence
Gene Marks, Forbes.com, 25 Jan. 2026
The other was a prototype for a larger, more SUV-like future model.
—Jan Wagner, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Jan. 2026
Sadly, the Gophers’ prototype quarterback that season, Curt Wilson, died recently.
—Charley Walters, Twin Cities, 24 Jan. 2026
These findings suggest that, over the course of evolution, the zebrafish telencephalon may represent an early evolutionary precursor—or prototype—of the human hippocampus.
—Matt Emma, USA Today, 24 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for prototype
Cite this Entry
“Prototype.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prototype. Accessed 27 Jan. 2026.
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prototype
noun
