archetype
AR-kih-typenounMeaning an original model; a classic example of a type that others follow
Memory hook ARCHE-TYPE: the FIRST TYPE, copied in every tale. Professor Edwin plays the wise old wizard in the school play, and every kid in a wizard hat copies him: the long beard, the staff, the deep voice. He is the archetype.
The wise old wizard is an archetype found in stories all over the world.
In context That first clumsy wooden bicycle was the archetype from which every later bike descended; its two wheels and handlebars are still the basic design today.
Similar original, model, prototype, classic example
Opposite copy, imitation
From Greek archetypon, “a first pattern”: arche (beginning) + typos (a mark, a model).