Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Prototype \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.

Source : WordNet®

prototype
     n : a standard or typical example; "he is the prototype of good
         breeding"; "he provided America with an image of the good
         father" [syn: {paradigm}, {epitome}, {image}]