prototype

noun

pro·​to·​type ˈprō-tə-ˌtīp How to pronounce prototype (audio)
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)

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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

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 The Power Of Foundational Models One of the most striking trends at the Hackathon was the ease with which students could develop fully functional AI prototypes, thanks to the ubiquity of foundational models. Praveen Gujar, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024 Nelly, 49, and Ashanti, 44, might be prototypes for spinning the block successfully, as the couple is still going strong. Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 21 Oct. 2024 Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology has tried out Vaisala’s more sustainable balloon prototypes and has switched from white to blue balloons, which marine animals may be less likely to mistake for food. Danielle Beurteaux, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 Oct. 2024 Further testing—including occupied runs in the NBL and trials with the prototypes for the Artemis Lunar Terrain Vehicle—will continue as the AxEMU enters its final development stage over the next year. Emilio Cozzi, WIRED, 16 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.

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of prototype was in 1552

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Dictionary Entries Near prototype

Cite this Entry

“Prototype.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prototype. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

prototype

noun
pro·​to·​type ˈprōt-ə-ˌtīp How to pronounce prototype (audio)
: an original model on which something is patterned

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