Proto

/ˈproʊtoʊ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A first or preliminary version of a device or concept.

The engineers developed a proto of the new smartphone to test its features.

An early or original model of something, often used for testing purposes.

The company unveiled a proto of their electric vehicle at the auto show.

A term used to denote the first or primitive form of something.

In historical linguistics, the term 'proto' is often used to describe the reconstructed ancestor of a language.

prefix

Used to indicate the first or earliest form of something.

Proto-human species are studied to understand the evolution of modern humans.

Indicating that something is original or primitive.

The discovery of proto-electricity sheds light on ancient civilizations’ technological advancements.

Used in science to denote the initial stage or phase of a process.

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.

Used to denote something experimental or in the early stages.

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

Referring to an outdated or basic version of something.

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