noun

1. the original pattern, or model, from which all other things of the same kind are made; prototype
2. a perfect example of a type or group
3. in Jungian psychology, any of several innate ideas or patterns in the psyche, expressed in dreams, art, etc. as certain basic symbols or images

Etymology: L archetypus < Gr archetypon < archos (see arch-) + typos (see type)