: 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 or fully developed and usually functional form of a new product or service that is created to demonstrate feasibility, detect flaws, gather feedback, etc.
: to create a first full-scale or fully developed and usually functional form of a new type or design of (a construction, product, service, system, etc.) : to develop and produce a prototype
The technology was originally designed and prototyped by NASA scientists and is being commercialized โฆ to support improved satellite power โฆโ๐ Image Gulf Oil & Gas
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.
Noun
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.
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Noun
Just 20 months after showing Resta his first sketch in January of 2024, Papi had a working prototype; finally, by early 2026, two examples had been produced in platinumโone for the Audemars Piguet museum, and one to be sold to an important collector.โ๐ Image Oren Hartov, Robb Report, 4 Apr. 2026 Amazon Leo is still in its early stages; just 212 of the spacecraft have reached orbit to date over the course of eight launches (not counting a 2023 liftoff that sent up two prototype satellites).โ๐ Image Mike Wall, Space.com, 3 Apr. 2026 Two prototype satellites will launch in early 2027, according to the companies.โ๐ Image Geoff Brumfiel, NPR, 3 Apr. 2026 Jackson is assigned to work with engineers who are testing aircraft prototypes in a wind tunnel.โ๐ Image Encyclopedia Britannica, 3 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for prototype
Word History
Etymology
Noun
French, from Greek prลtotypon, from neuter of prลtotypos archetypal, from prลt- + typos type
