prototype

1 of 2

noun

pro·​to·​type ˈprō-tə-ˌtīp 

plural prototypes

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 or fully developed and usually functional form of a new product or service that is created to demonstrate feasibility, detect flaws, gather feedback, etc.

prototype

2 of 2

verb

prototyped; prototyping; prototypes

transitive verb

: to create a first full-scale or fully developed and usually functional form of a new type or design of (a construction, product, service, system, etc.) : to develop and produce a prototype

The technology was originally designed and prototyped by NASA scientists and is being commercialized … to support improved satellite power …

—Gulf Oil & Gas

intransitive verb

: to undertake the process of producing a prototype

To effectively prototype, start by defining the purpose of your prototype, which sets clear testing goals.

—Tabby McFarland

Did you know?

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.

Synonyms of prototype

Noun

• example
• sample
• specimen
• instance

Examples of prototype in a Sentence

Noun

They tested the prototype of the car.

He is developing a prototype for his invention.

He is the prototype of a conservative businessman.

The Sherlock Holmes stories are the prototypes of modern detective stories.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Refine a portfolio piece, build a small prototype, or share a draft with someone who gives honest notes. — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 5 July 2026

As for the demonstrator, this will not be a prototype, but rather a full-scale working aircraft that will be called Jet1. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 5 July 2026

Verb

Where there was once just one, there are now 20 modern multi-axis CNC machines for prototyping. — Brody Miller, New York Times, 13 Mar. 2026

His longer-term goal is to identify new technologies, prototype them, and move them into production by using yachts like Leviathan as test beds in real-world conditions. — Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 16 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

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

Verb

derivative of prototype entry 1

First Known Use

Noun

1552, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1859, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for prototype

• allotype
• antitype
• archetype
• biotype
• collotype
• genotype
• haplotype
• holotype
• hypotype
• isotype
• lectotype
• linotype

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Kids Definition

prototype

noun

pro·​to·​type ˈprōt-ə-ˌtīp 

: an original model on which something is patterned