prototype Meaning, Definition & Usage

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

WordNet

Pro"to*type noun
Etymology
F., from L. prototypus original, primitive, Gr. , first + type, model. See Proto-, and Type
Definitions
  1. An original or model after which anything is copied; the pattern of anything to be engraved, or otherwise copied, cast, or the like; a primary form; exemplar; archetype.
    They will turn their backs on it, like their great precursor and prototype. Burke.

Webster 1913