WordValearchetype
a perfect or typical example
a universal, recurring character type or symbol
In more detail
1. (noun) a very typical example of something that has influenced many later copies or imitations
2. (noun) an original pattern or model from which other things are based
Examples
- 1. The detective in this novel is an archetype of the hard-boiled investigator.
- 2. In literature, the hero's journey is an archetype found in stories across many cultures.
How to use archetype
Archetype refers to an original, influential pattern or example that serves as a model for subsequent versions; it's widely used in literary criticism, psychology, and design contexts. The term often carries a sense of universality or timelessness. It differs from prototype in that archetype emphasizes the typical, representative quality rather than the first-made instance.
Common phrases
- archetypal character
- classic archetype
- embodies an archetype
- archetypal hero
- archetypal narrative
Synonyms
prototype · template · model · exemplar · original
Opposites
copy · imitation
Word family
archetypal (adjective) · archetypical (adjective) · archetypically (adverb)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse archetype with stereotype, but archetype refers to an original pattern or universal model, whereas stereotype is a fixed, often oversimplified belief about a group.
Save this word in WordVale and it comes back for review right before you'd forget it — with pronunciation, real examples, and optional translations. One purchase, no subscription.
Get WordValeFREE 7-DAY TRIAL · iPHONE & iPAD