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Prototyped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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prototyped

[ˈprəʊtəˌtaɪpt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

product development

Prototyped is the past tense of prototype, which means to create an initial model or example of something. This process is essential in product development and design, allowing creators to test and refine their ideas before final production. Prototyping can involve sketches, digital representations, or physical models, and it is a crucial step in many engineering and design fields. The goal is to visualize and evaluate concepts to make improvements based on feedback and testing.

Synonyms

drafted, mocked up, modeled.

Examples of usage

  • The team prototyped their new app interface.
  • She prototyped a model of the new building.
  • They prototyped several designs before choosing the final one.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Prototyping is essential in software development, allowing teams to visualize features before coding them.
  • Rapid prototyping techniques include 3D printing, enabling faster creation of physical models.
  • Digital prototypes can be interactive, allowing users to experience the software's layout and functions early on.

Psychology

  • Prototyping can help reduce anxiety among teams by providing a tangible representation of abstract ideas.
  • Cognitive psychology suggests that people understand new concepts better when they can see examples, similar to prototypes.
  • The act of building prototypes allows for creative exploration and can lead to unexpected innovations.

Business

  • Many startups rely on prototypes to attract investors, showcasing their product's potential without complete development.
  • Testing prototypes helps gather user feedback early, improving the final product based on actual user needs.
  • Prototyping saves time and money by identifying flaws before full-scale production begins.

Design

  • In design thinking, prototyping is a crucial step that encourages iterative feedback and improvements.
  • Designers often create low-fidelity prototypes using simple materials, ensuring quick adjustments.
  • Iterative prototyping, where prototypes are continuously refined, fosters innovation and user-centered design.

Origin of 'prototyped'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'prototypos', meaning 'first of its kind'.
  • It combines 'proto-' meaning 'first' and '-typed' referring to modeling or creating a version of something.
  • The term has been in use since the early 20th century, evolving from concepts in design and engineering.

The word 'prototype' comes from the Greek words 'protos,' meaning 'first,' and 'typos,' meaning 'impression' or 'model.' It originally referred to an original form or first model of something, which would then serve as a standard for further versions. In the early 20th century, the meaning of prototype expanded in industrial and manufacturing contexts, where it became crucial for creating tools and machines. As technology advanced, the term evolved to encompass various fields, including software development and design, where rapid prototyping became a significant part of the creative process. The verb form 'prototyped' began to be used more frequently in the late 20th century, reflecting a growing emphasis on prototyping as an important phase in the development of products and ideas.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,061, 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.