archetype

[ ahr-ki-tahyp ]

noun

1. the original pattern or model from which all things of the same kind are copied or on which they are based; a model or first form; prototype.
2. (in Jungian psychology) a collectively inherited unconscious idea, pattern of thought, image, etc., universally present in individual psyches.

archetype

/ ˈɑːkɪˌtaɪp /

noun

1. a perfect or typical specimen
2. an original model or pattern; prototype
3. psychoanal one of the inherited mental images postulated by Jung as the content of the collective unconscious
4. a constantly recurring symbol or motif in literature, painting, etc

archetype

1. An original model after which other similar things are patterned. In the psychology of Carl Jung , archetypes are the images, patterns, and symbols (see also symbol ) that rise out of the collective unconscious and appear in dreams, mythology , and fairy tales.

Other Words From

• arche·typal ar·che·typ·i·cal [ahr-ki-, tip, -i-k, uh, l], arche·typic adjective
• arche·typal·ly arche·typi·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of archetype¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; from Latin archetypum “an original,” from Greek archétypon “a model, pattern,” neuter of archétypos “of the first mold,” equivalent to arche- + type

Word History and Origins

Origin of archetype¹

C17: from Latin archetypum an original, from Greek arkhetupon, from arkhetupos first-moulded; see arch- , type

Example Sentences

But he was closer to the Polish American factory parts salesman than more glamorous Hollywood types striving to live up to Brando’s masculine archetype.

From Los Angeles Times

The four Ghostbusters, for instance, bring distinct skills and backgrounds to the table, while the witches in "The Craft" each embody a different archetype of teenage girlhood, from outcast to queen bee.

From Salon

But the archetype Vance wants us to accept is not necessarily the one that we receive.

From Slate

Walz himself presents the polar opposite of narcissism: His archetype of father who wants a better life for his children comes quite naturally.

From Slate

The producers saved another no-brainer archetype, the TV president, to introduce the award for best TV drama.

From Salon