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.