1. a perfect or typical example of a particular kind of person or thing
2. an original model or pattern from which copies are made
3. a universally recognized symbol, term, or pattern of behavior inherited from the past
Usage: psychology; literature

Examples

• The hero’s journey is a common archetype in literature.
• She represents the archetype of the dedicated teacher.
• The wise old mentor is an archetype found in many stories.
• This building serves as the archetype for modern architecture.
• Jung studied archetypes in the collective unconscious.
• The villain in the story fits the archetype perfectly.
• Ancient myths contain many universal archetypes.