prototype
noun
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.
Examples of prototype in a Sentence
Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 3 Oct. 2025
The content banner will create original material for digital platforms with an eye on developing concepts and prototypes for movies, TV shows, live media, podcasts, e-commerce and more.
—Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 3 Oct. 2025
The partnership is aimed at developing a highly survivable, self-driving AMPV prototype at speeds that rapidly outpace traditional development cycles.
—Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 3 Oct. 2025
The team tested numerous prototypes by dropping a bottle equipped with a kirigami parachute from a height of nearly 200 ft (60 m).
—New Atlas, 3 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for prototype
Cite this Entry
“Prototype.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prototype. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
prototype
noun
Share