noun
C2
Proficient
archetype
AH-kih-typ
Archetype (noun) means an original pattern or model that other similar things are based on or compared to. Example: “The wise old mentor is a familiar archetype in fantasy fiction.”
noun
1
An original pattern or model that other similar things are based on or compared to.
"The wise old mentor is a familiar archetype in fantasy fiction."
"Jung believed certain archetypes, like the hero, appear across all cultures."
How to use archetype
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA classic, original pattern or example that other similar things are modeled on.
Common pairings
classic archetype
literary archetype
archetype of
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Word forms
- Plural
- archetypes
- Third person singular
- archetypes
- Past tense
- archetyped
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The wise old mentor is a familiar _____ in fantasy fiction.
Etymology
From Greek arkhetupon, "original pattern", from arkhe-, "first", plus tupos, "type, mold".
Synonyms
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Rhymes for archetype
See all rhymes for archetype →Frequently asked questions
What does “archetype” mean?
The word “archetype” means an original pattern or model that other similar things are based on or compared to. In plain terms, a classic, original pattern or example that other similar things are modeled on.
How do you pronounce “archetype”?
“Archetype” is pronounced AH-kih-typ (/ˈɑɹkɪtaɪp/ in IPA).
How do you use “archetype” in a sentence?
Here is “archetype” used in a sentence: “The wise old mentor is a familiar archetype in fantasy fiction.”
What is another word for “archetype”?
Words with a similar meaning to “archetype” include model.
What part of speech is “archetype”?
“Archetype” is a noun.
Where does the word “archetype” come from?
The word “archetype” comes from Greek. From Greek arkhetupon, "original pattern", from arkhe-, "first", plus tupos, "type, mold".
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