Prototype

/ˈprəʊtəˌtaɪp/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A first or preliminary version of a device or vehicle from which other forms are developed.

The company created a prototype of the new smartphone to test its features.

A typical example or pattern of something; a model.

The ancient structure served as a prototype for modern architectural designs.

verb

To create a prototype of something.

The engineers will prototype the new engine design next month.

From Greek 'prototypos' meaning 'first of its kind'.

proof of concept

A demonstration that a concept or idea is feasible.

model prototype

A specific type of prototype that serves as a model for replication.

working prototype

A prototype that is functional and can be tested in real conditions.

mockup

A model of a design used to present the concept.

beta version

A version of a software product that is incomplete but distributed for testing.

concept art

Illustrations that convey an idea for use in movies, video games, or other media.

A trial version of something before the final product.

That app is still in prototype phase, so expect bugs.

In technology, a rough draft or early build of a product.

I’m using the prototype model at the moment; it’s pretty buggy.