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Prototype Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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prototype

[ˈprəʊtətʌɪp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in technology

A first or preliminary version of a device or product from which other forms are developed.

Synonyms

mock-up, model, sample.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
prototype

Useful when referring to an initial version of a product, often in the context of engineering, design, and product development. It is usually the first functional version made to test and refine ideas.

  • The team built a prototype of the new smartphone to test its features.
  • Our engineers created a prototype to evaluate its performance.
model

Often used in various fields including education, science, and architecture, a model can refer to a scaled-down version of something or a theoretical representation. It helps in simulation, demonstrating functionalities, or educational purposes.

  • Students built a model of the solar system for their project.
  • The researchers developed a computer model to simulate climate change.
sample

Best used when referring to a small part or quantity intended to show what the whole is like. Commonly used in contexts like market research, material testing, or quality control.

  • We collected soil samples for testing.
  • The company sent out samples of their new product to potential customers.
mock-up

Commonly used in design and advertising, mock-ups typically refer to non-functional models that give a visual representation of how the final product will look. They are often used to present ideas to clients or stakeholders.

  • We showed the client a mock-up of their new website.
  • The architects prepared a mock-up of the building to illustrate the design.

Examples of usage

  • The company is currently working on a prototype of their new smartphone.
  • After several iterations, they finally perfected the prototype.
  • The prototype showed great promise for future development.
  • It's important to test the prototype before mass production.
  • The prototype will be presented at the upcoming conference.
Context #2 | Noun

in biology

An early sample or model of a species that leads to the development of future generations.

Synonyms

ancestor, forerunner, precursor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
prototype

This term is typically used in engineering, technology, and design to describe the first model of a product, which is created to test and refine it before mass production.

  • The engineers built a prototype to test the new features of the electric car.
  • The first prototype of the smartphone had several issues that needed to be fixed before the final version was released.
ancestor

This is often used in historical or genealogical contexts to refer to a person from whom one is descended, typically more remote than a grandparent.

  • She traced her family tree back to an ancestor who lived in the 1700s.
  • The ancient artifact belonged to his distant ancestor.
precursor

This term is used to indicate something that comes before another and paves the way for its development. It can be used in scientific, historical, or literary contexts.

  • The invention of the steam engine was a precursor to the Industrial Revolution.
  • The Roman legal system was a precursor to many modern laws.
forerunner

This word is often used to describe something that precedes something else and indicates its approach, sometimes setting the stage for the more modern or well-known instance.

  • The telegraph was a forerunner to modern communication technologies.
  • The early electronic calculators were the forerunners of today's computers.

Examples of usage

  • The scientist discovered a fossilized prototype of a new species.
  • The genetic mutation served as a prototype for evolutionary change.
  • The prototype organism displayed unique characteristics.
  • Studying the prototype helps us understand the species' evolution.
  • The prototype was an important link in the evolutionary chain.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'prototype'

The word 'prototype' originated from the Greek word 'prototypon', which means 'original form'. The concept of prototyping has been used throughout history in various fields such as technology, biology, and design. Prototypes are essential for testing and refining new ideas before full-scale production. The term has evolved to encompass not just physical models, but also early versions of software, processes, and concepts.

See also: subtype, type, typeface, types, typesetting, typewriter, typical, typify, typing, typist, typography.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,335 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.