prototype

noun

pro·​to·​type ˈprō-tə-ˌtīp 

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 (such as an airplane)

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

• case
• example
• exemplar
• exemplification
• illustration
• instance
• representative
• sample
• specimen

Examples of prototype in a Sentence

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

After earmarking 610 billion won ($414 million) to build a battery plant near its Busan headquarters, the company unveiled its battery prototype in March 2024, touting it as more powerful than Tesla’s. —Gloria Haraito, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025

The prototype Bat flipped the traditional coaster concept on its head — with the trains swinging from side to side while hanging below the track. —Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 11 Apr. 2025

Amazon launched a pair of prototype satellites in 2023, but the operational versions are different, and this mission fills the capacity of ULA's Atlas V rocket. —ArsTechnica, 11 Apr. 2025

Google on Tuesday showed off prototype glasses that combine a miniature display with the company's Gemini AI assistant. —Ina Fried, Axios, 8 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1552, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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