archetypes

plural of archetype
1
as in forerunners
something belonging to an earlier time from which something else was later developed the abacus is sometimes cited as the archetype of the modern digital calculator

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
as in originals
something from which copies are made Beowulf is considered by some scholars to be the archetype for medieval British heroic tales

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of archetypes The designer had fun playing with different archetypes. Hikmat Mohammed, WWD, 14 Mar. 2025 There are more archetypes, talent selections and other choices that expand customization options. Rob Wieland, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025 Of course, this being the Warhammer 40k universe, players might be just as likely to make secret alliances with these heretical creatures and pick up one of the archetypes in these books with their Game Master’s permission. Rob Wieland, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025 There are also several new archetypes and playable alien species. Rob Wieland, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025 The characters in the film are as unique as the zodiac signs themselves, each one embodying traits that reflect different archetypes in the astrological wheel. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 4 Mar. 2025 For too long, even films celebrated for their strong female characters have relied on tropes and archetypes rather than genuine complexity. Gemma Allen, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025 What can be done about character depends on one of four archetypes. Mary Crossan, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025 The performance fuses contemporary themes with mythological elements, reinterpreting traditional archetypes by portraying female rulers, centaur women, travelers, and heroines. Photovogue, Vogue, 27 Feb. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for archetypes
Noun
  • Now this may be simply because a few uniquely talented craftsman build each Torpedo by hand on a small Swedish island where their ancestors have literally been building boats for more than 1000 years.
    Bill Springer, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025
  • Their ancestors evolved in dry areas, so this element can feel unfamiliar to them.
    Raja Krishnamoorthi, Newsweek, 13 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Known for showcasing working prototypes and cutting-edge technology, CES is also a place for critical announcements from leading brands.
    Prakhar Khanna, Forbes, 3 Jan. 2025
  • The brand is already working through new prototypes of a third line, one that could fall between the two existing models.
    Tim Newcomb, Forbes, 1 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • The human resources department cited telehealth providers, investigators and inspectors as examples of employees who fit into this exception.
    William Melhado, Sacramento Bee, 15 Mar. 2025
  • Some examples are basil, tomatoes, squash, peppers, and eggplants.
    Erica Browne Grivas, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Archetypes.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/archetypes. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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