an original model on which something is based or from which it derives
a first full-scale and usu operational form of a new type or design of a construction, e.g. an aeroplane
somebody or something that exemplifies the essential features of a type
prototypic /-ʹtipik/ adj
prototypical /-ʹtipikl/ adj
[via French from Greek prōtotypon, neuter of prōtotypos archetypal, from proto- + typos type]