Definitions for archetypeˈɑr kɪˌtaɪp

This page provides all possible meanings and translations of the word archetype

Random House Webster's College Dictionary

ar•che•typeˈɑr kɪˌtaɪp(n.)


  2. (in Jungian psychology) an inherited unconscious idea, pattern of thought, image, etc., universally present in individual psyches.

    Category: Psychology

Origin of archetype:

1595–1605; < L archetypum < Gk archétypon, neut. of archétypos molded first, archetypal



Princeton's WordNet

  1. original, archetype, pilot(noun)

    something that serves as a model or a basis for making copies

    "this painting is a copy of the original"


  1. archetype(Noun)

    An original model of which all other similar persons, objects, or concepts are merely derivative, copied, patterned, or emulated; a prototype

  2. archetype(Noun)


  3. archetype(Noun)

    An ideal example of something; a quintessence.

  4. archetype(Noun)


  5. archetype(Verb)

    To depict as, model using or otherwise associate a subject or object with an archetype.

  6. Origin: From architipe (French archétype), from archetypum, from ἀρχέτυπον neuter of ἀρχέτυπος, from ἀρχή + τύπος.

Webster Dictionary

  1. Archetype(noun)


  2. Archetype(noun)

    the standard weight or coin by which others are adjusted

  3. Archetype(noun)



  1. Archetype

    An archetype is a universally understood symbol, term, statement, or pattern of behavior, a prototype upon which others are copied, patterned, or emulated. Archetypes are often used in myths and storytelling across different cultures. In psychology, an archetype is a model of a person, personality, or behavior. In philosophy, archetypes have, since Plato, referred to ideal forms of the perceived or sensible objects or types. In the analysis of personality, the term archetype is often broadly used to refer to: ⁕A stereotype— a personality type observed multiple times, especially an oversimplification of such a type. ⁕An epitome— a personality type exemplified, especially the "greatest" such example. ⁕A literary term to express details. Archetype refers to a generic version of a personality. In this sense, "mother figure" may be considered an archetype, and may be identified in various characters with otherwise distinct personalities. Archetypes are likewise supposed to have been present in folklore and literature for thousands of years, including prehistoric artwork. The use of archetypes to illuminate personality and literature was advanced by Carl Jung early in the 20th century, who suggested the existence of universal contentless forms that channel experiences and emotions, resulting in recognizable and typical patterns of behavior with certain probable outcomes. Archetypes are cited as important to both ancient mythology and modern narratives.


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