Pro"to*type (?), n. [F., from L. prototypus original, primitive, Gr. , ; first + type, model. See Proto-, and Type]
An original or model after which anything is copied; the pattern of anything to be engraved, or otherwise copied, cast, or the like; a primary form; exemplar; archetype.
They will turn their backs on it, like their great precursor and prototype.
Burke.
© Webster 1913.