Meaning & Definition of word "Proto"

Proto

/ˈproʊtoʊ/

1. A first or preliminary version of a device or concept.
- Example: The engineers developed a proto of the new smartphone to test its features.
2. An early or original model of something, often used for testing purposes.
- Example: The company unveiled a proto of their electric vehicle at the auto show.
3. A term used to denote the first or primitive form of something.
- Example: In historical linguistics, the term 'proto' is often used to describe the reconstructed ancestor of a language.

1. Used to indicate the first or earliest form of something.
- Example: Proto-human species are studied to understand the evolution of modern humans.
2. Indicating that something is original or primitive.
- Example: The discovery of proto-electricity sheds light on ancient civilizations’ technological advancements.
3. Used in science to denote the initial stage or phase of a process.
- Example: Scientists are researching proto-formation of stars in the universe.

Derived from the Greek word 'prōtos', meaning 'first'.

proto-culture:

Refers to the earliest forms of culture in human development.

proto-type:

A model or first version of something used for testing.

proto-science:

An early stage of scientific inquiry before it becomes fully developed.

prototype:

An original model on which something is based or formed.

proton:

A subatomic particle with a positive electric charge found in the nucleus of an atom.

protocol:

A system of rules that explain the proper conduct and procedures to be followed in formal situations.

Meaning: Used to denote something experimental or in the early stages.

Example Sentence: That car design is still in proto phase; it won't hit the market for another year.

Meaning: Referring to an outdated or basic version of something.

Example Sentence: That game is so proto, it doesn't even have proper graphics.