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.
Synonyms
Examples of prototype in a Sentence
Brad Templeton, Forbes, 11 Oct. 2024
Sany said this prototype wind turbine will go through a year of operational testing for reliability in an experimental wind farm.
—Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 11 Oct. 2024
Munster expects to see a prototype of the robotaxi, along with previews of the other vehicles.
—William Gavin, Quartz, 9 Oct. 2024
This car is a prototype hydrogen fuel cell vehicle built into a BMW X5 SUV.
—James Morris, Fortune Europe, 7 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for prototype 
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'prototype.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Cite this Entry
“Prototype.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prototype. Accessed 24 Oct. 2024.
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prototype
noun
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