Synonyms of archetype

archetype

noun

ˈär-ki-ˌtīp 

1

as in original

something from which copies are made

Beowulf is considered by some scholars to be the archetype for medieval British heroic tales

Synonyms & Similar Words

• original
• prototype
• source
• example
• blueprint
• model
• paradigm
• mold
• pattern
• ideal
• classic
• exemplar
• paragon
• nonpareil
• draft
• beau ideal

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• imitation
• copy
• reproduction
• replica
• forgery
• sham
• counterfeit
• fake

2

as in forerunner

something belonging to an earlier time from which something else was later developed

the abacus is sometimes cited as the archetype of the modern digital calculator

Synonyms & Similar Words

• forerunner
• ancestor
• precursor
• prototype
• predecessor
• antecedent
• model
• original
• granddaddy
• daddy
• originator
• mother
• foregoer
• sire
• father

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• descendant
• derivative
• outgrowth
• offshoot
• son
• by-product
• daughter
• spin-off

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of archetype

But perhaps the image of Minaj onstage will inspire the MAGA set to adopt Demna’s revamp of the house—some of the caricatural archetypes in his most recent collection certainly leaned conservative. — José Criales-Unzueta, Vanity Fair, 28 Oct. 2026

Beyond prep, Jules theorized as to how Lauren can so effectively blur and co-mingle so many different archetypes. — Luke Leitch, Vogue, 26 Oct. 2026

Their interpretations of the witch archetype keep the classic Halloween costume relevant and enduring. — Tonya Blazio-Licorish, Footwear News, 25 Oct. 2026

He is surrounded by a parade of savvier comic archetypes — from his urbane, happily rational brother, Beralde (Dylan Baker), to his smart-aleck maid, Toinette (Rachel Bloom, giving eternal side-eye) — who have to either evade or manipulate him. — Sara Holdren, Vulture, 23 Oct. 2026

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!