prototypical

adjective

pro·​to·​typ·​i·​cal ˌprō-tə-ˈti-pi-kəl How to pronounce prototypical (audio)
variants or less commonly prototypic
ˌprō-tə-ˈti-pik How to pronounce prototypical (audio)
: of, relating to, or being a prototype
prototypically
ˌprō-tə-ˈti-pi-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce prototypical (audio)
adverb

Examples of prototypical in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Scouting report Williams has a modern, prototypical build with fluid movement. — Brendan Marks, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026 The prototypical service candidate is straitlaced and clean-shaven, someone who speaks about their service in bloodless shorthand, heavy on duty, light on pain. — Jasper Craven, New Yorker, 24 July 2026 Magdalen’s changing, fillable, emotionally ready body is a complication of the traditional emotional body in the prototypical actress novel. — Literary Hub, 24 July 2026 Cameron Carr, 6-6, Baylor Has the look of a prototypical frame and look of a 3-and-D wing, even if the defense is still a couple years away from being a plus skill. — Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for prototypical

Word History

First Known Use

1650, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of prototypical was in 1650

Rhymes for prototypical

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Browse Nearby Words

prototype
prototypical
prototyping
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Cite this Entry

“Prototypical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prototypical. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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