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Archetypical: meaning, definitions and examples

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archetypical

 

[ ˌɑːrkɪˈtaɪpɪkəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

common example

Archetypical refers to something that is typical or representative of an original model or prototype. It embodies the essential characteristics or qualities of a particular type. The term is often used in literature and psychology to describe characters, themes, or motifs that are universally recognized and recurring in various cultures. An archetypical figure serves as a standard against which others are measured.

Synonyms

exemplary, prototypical, representative, standard, typical

Examples of usage

  • In many myths, the hero follows an archetypical journey.
  • The artist created an archetypical landscape that represents beauty.
  • Her role in the film was archetypical of the classic romantic lead.

Translations

Translations of the word "archetypical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 arquetípico

🇮🇳 आदर्शात्मक

🇩🇪 archetypisch

🇮🇩 archetypal

🇺🇦 аркетипічний

🇵🇱 archetypowy

🇯🇵 原型的な

🇫🇷 archétypique

🇪🇸 arquetípico

🇹🇷 archetipik

🇰🇷 전형적인

🇸🇦 نموذجي

🇨🇿 archetypální

🇸🇰 archetypálny

🇨🇳 原型的

🇸🇮 arhetipski

🇮🇸 archetypískur

🇰🇿 архетиптік

🇬🇪 არქეტიპული

🇦🇿 arxetipik

🇲🇽 arquetípico

Word origin

The term 'archetypical' is derived from the Greek word 'archetypon', which means 'original pattern' or 'model'. It combines 'arche-', meaning 'beginning' or 'first', and 'typos', meaning 'impression' or 'pattern'. The adoption of the term into English occurred in the early 20th century, particularly in the context of psychology through the works of Carl Jung, who explored archetypes as fundamental human motifs and symbols reflecting common experiences and emotions. Over time, the term has transitioned beyond psychology and literature, appearing in discussions of culture, behavior, and art to denote elements that embody a universal quality or characteristic. As such, the concept of the archetype has played a crucial role in understanding narrative structures and character development across various disciplines.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,977, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.