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.
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Examples of prototype in a Sentence
Quartz Bot, Quartz, 14 Nov. 2024
The company is now in the process of building three new prototypes, which will be subjected to both air and ground testing over the next 18 months.
—Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 4 Nov. 2024
The company also developed an Origin vehicle prototype designed for autonomous operation without a driver’s seat or steering wheel.
—Michael Khouw, CNBC, 4 Nov. 2024
Fun fact: Wiggins and Thorp developed their own prototype and designed the company's refill facility in Minecraft before building the physical version of it.
—Richard Collings, Axios, 30 Oct. 2024
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Cite this Entry
“Prototype.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prototype. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
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prototype
noun
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