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
Rosanna Philpott, CNN Money, 24 Oct. 2025
By comparison, the latest prototypes from Helix, Donut Labs, H3X, and Equipmake offer power densities between 13 and 25kW/kg, still less than half of YASA’s new record.
—Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2025
Carter built the first prototype of the toy during World War II, inspired by the devices his mother, famous psychic medium Laura Pruden, would use in her work.
—Otto Rabe, Cincinnati Enquirer, 24 Oct. 2025
Things that will be of interest to those involved in the Lin-gang Special Area prototype include potential maintenance costs, corrosion and impact on the marine environment.
—New Atlas, 21 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 30 Oct. 2025.
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prototype
noun
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