Prototype

Dictionary Definitions

Webster's Dictionary definitions

1. An original model on which something is patterned.
2. An individual that exhibits the essential features of a later type.
3. A standard or typical example.
4. A first full-scale and usually functional form of a new type or design of a construction (as an airplane).

Dictionary.com's definitions [1 exception]

1. An original type, form, or instance serving as a basis or standard for later stages.
2. An original, full-scale, and usually working model of a new product or new version of an existing product.
3. An early, typical example.

Oxford's Dictionary definitions

1. A first or preliminary form from which other forms are developed or copied.
2. A typical example of something.

Encarta.com Dictionary definitions [1 exception]

1. Original used as model: something having the essential features of a subsequent type, and on which later forms are modeled.
2. Standard example: a standard example of a particular kind, class, or group.
3. Full-size functional model: a first full-size functional model to be manufactured, for example, of a car or a machine.