Definition

Noun: 1. An original or first model of something from which other forms are copied or developed: A prototype is the initial, often functional, version of a product, system, or concept, created to test and refine the design before full-scale production or implementation. 2. A typical or representative example of a category: A prototype can serve as a standard model that embodies the essential qualities of a class or group.

Examples of Usage

• As an original model:
  • The engineers built a working prototype of the new electric car to test its battery life.
  • Before launching the app, the design team created a clickable prototype to gather user feedback.
• As a typical example:
  • He is considered the prototype of the modern action hero.
  • This novel is the prototype for all subsequent detective stories.

Advanced Usage

• "To prototype" (verb, less common): The act of making a prototype.
  • The company is prototyping several different designs before choosing a final one.
• In cognitive psychology, the "prototype theory" suggests that people categorize things by comparing them to a mental prototype, or the best example of a category.

Variants and Related Words

• Prototypical (adjective): Serving as a typical or representative example.
  • The suburban house with a white picket fence is a prototypical image of the American dream.
• Archetype (noun): A very typical example of a certain person or thing; often implies a perfect or ideal original model, sometimes with a mythical or universal quality.
• Model (noun): A three-dimensional representation or a preliminary design.

Synonyms

• Archetype: The original pattern or model.
• Exemplar: A person or thing serving as a typical example or excellent model.
• Paradigm: A typical example or pattern of something; a model.
• Blueprint: A detailed plan or prototype.

Related Phrases

• Proof of concept: A demonstration, often a simple prototype, to verify that a concept or theory has practical potential.
• Minimum viable product (MVP): A development term for a product with just enough features to satisfy early customers and provide feedback for future development; similar to a functional prototype.

Noun

1. a standard or typical example
   • he is the prototype of good breeding
   • he provided America with an image of the good father