Definition

1. Noun:
   • A very typical example of a certain person or thing: An archetype is the most perfect or representative example of a particular category or concept.
   • An original model or pattern from which copies are made: In literature, psychology, and art, an archetype is a fundamental, recurring symbol, character, or theme that serves as a prototype.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The hero's journey is a common archetype in world mythology.
  • She is considered the archetype of a successful modern entrepreneur.
  • The novel's wise old mentor is a classic literary archetype.

Advanced Usage

• "To be the archetype of something": To be the quintessential or defining example of a category.
  • His innovative design became the archetype of modern architecture.
• Archetypal (adj): Being a perfect or typical example of something.
  • The film features an archetypal battle between good and evil.

Variants and Related Words

• Prototype (n): An early sample or model built to test a concept.
  • The company built a prototype of the new car.
• Paradigm (n): A typical example or pattern of something; a model.
  • This case study serves as a paradigm for effective management.

Synonyms

• Quintessence: The most perfect or typical example of a quality or class.
• Epitome: A person or thing that is a perfect example of a particular quality or type.
• Model: A standard or example for imitation or comparison.

Idioms and Phrases

• "The archetypal [figure/example]": Used to describe something that is the most representative or classic of its kind.
  • He is the archetypal absent-minded professor.

Noun

1. something that serves as a model or a basis for making copies
   • this painting is a copy of the original