prototype
noun
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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.
Synonyms
Examples of prototype in a Sentence
Lily Templeton, WWD, 12 July 2024
The film is now seen as the prototype for sleek, stylish action-thrillers.
—Mark Olsen, Los Angeles Times, 12 July 2024
By Dana Hull and Ed Ludlow / BLOOMBERG July 11, 2024 5:04 PM EDT
Tesla Inc. is postponing its planned robotaxi unveiling to October to allow teams working on the project more time to build additional prototypes, according to people familiar with the decision.
—Dana Hull and Ed Ludlow / Bloomberg, TIME, 11 July 2024
For the new test flight, Joby took a pre-production prototype of one of its battery-electric aircraft and outfitted it with a liquid hydrogen fuel tank and fuel system.
—Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 11 July 2024
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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.
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“Prototype.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prototype. Accessed 24 Jul. 2024.
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prototype
noun
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