archetype
/ˈɑːkɪtaɪp/
Group 25Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (noun)
- A very typical example of a certain person or thing; an original that has been imitated GRE
Example in Context
The character has become an archetype of the reluctant hero, inspiring countless imitations across literature and film.
Synonyms
modelprototypeoriginal
Etymology
The chief model or original example of something.
- arch- (Greek) — chief
- typos (Greek) — model
Memory Aid
🏛️Sounds like “arch type”
Imagine an 'ARCH' with a 'TYPE' of person who is the ultimate superhero — the 'ARCHETYPE' of all heroes!
Visual Association
📚A museum exhibit showcasing a perfectly preserved original dinosaur skeleton, the ultimate example of its kind.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “archetype” mean on the GRE?
archetype (noun) means “A very typical example of a certain person or thing; an original that has been imitated”. The character has become an archetype of the reluctant hero, inspiring countless imitations across literature and film.
How to remember “archetype” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “archetype” sounds like “arch type”. Imagine an 'ARCH' with a 'TYPE' of person who is the ultimate superhero — the 'ARCHETYPE' of all heroes!
What are synonyms for “archetype”?
Common synonyms: model, prototype, original.