prototype

An early model of a product, made to test how it works before making the final version.

• We built a prototype.
• The engineers tested a prototype of the new engine.
• This prototype needs a stronger battery.

How to use it: prototype of something (They showed us a prototype of their new phone.)

Similar words: test model

Common phrases: working prototype, prototype of something, build a prototype

An original object or form that later things are based on.

• That chair was the prototype for later designs.
• The original prototype inspired a whole range of products.
• Scholars see this machine as the prototype of the modern computer.

How to use it: prototype for something (This painting became the prototype for her later work.)

Similar words: model, archetype

Common phrases: prototype for something, original prototype, prototype of something

An example that has the features people most strongly associate with a particular group or idea.

• A robin serves as a prototype of a bird.
• The study asked people to choose a prototype for each category.
• A category’s prototype need not have every possible feature.

How to use it: prototype of something (Researchers used a chair as a prototype of furniture.)

Similar words: typical example

Common phrases: category prototype, prototype of something

To make an early model of something so you can test it.

• We need to prototype the device.
• They prototyped three designs before choosing one.
• She is prototyping a new kitchen tool.

How to use it: prototype something (The team will prototype the new controller this week.)

Common phrases: prototype something, prototype a design, prototype an idea