Definition of PROTOTYPE
- ️Wed Feb 05 2025
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
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The pint-sized Dino 206 S was a lightweight sports prototype produced by Ferrari in 1966 and 1967.
—
Howard Walker, Robb Report, 29 Jan. 2025
Students were invited to hold prototypes and explore innovative technologies meant to solve health issues from strep throat to pancreatic cancer.
—Gael Langdon, arkansasonline.com, 29 Jan. 2025
However, this is a lab prototype: future versions and shipping products are likely to be much faster.
—John Koetsier, Forbes, 29 Jan. 2025
Boom Supersonic has gone, well, supersonic, its XB-1 prototype breaking the sound barrier today in the skies over the Mojave Air & Space Port in California.
—David Szondy, New Atlas, 28 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for prototype 
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
Dictionary Entries Near prototype
Cite this Entry
“Prototype.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prototype. Accessed 7 Feb. 2025.
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Last Updated: 5 Feb 2025 - Updated example sentences
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