The original or most perfect example of something that all other versions are based on or measured against.
From 'arch-' (chief, principal) + 'prototype' (first model). The prefix 'arch-' comes from Greek 'archos' meaning ruler or chief. 'Prototype' derives from Greek 'protos' (first) and 'typos' (type or model).
This word shows how English loves adding 'arch-' to intensify meaning—it's like saying 'the SUPER example' of something. The same prefix appears in 'architect' (chief builder) and 'archemy' (chief enemy, now archenemy), revealing how medieval and classical thinkers ranked importance through prefixes.
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