Serving as a typical example or model of a particular category; exhibiting the most characteristic features of a class or type. Represents the standard against which other members of the category are compared.
From Greek 'prototypos' (original model), combining 'protos' (first) + 'typos' (impression). Originally referred to first forms or models, but cognitive science in the 20th century expanded the meaning to describe how humans categorize objects based on typical rather than defining features.
Our brains use prototypes as mental shortcuts - when we think 'bird,' we picture something robin-like rather than a penguin, even though both are equally valid birds, showing how prototypes shape perception more than logic!
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