archetype

Pronunciation: noun. Synonyms: standard, representative, paradigm

noun

Definition of archetype

archetype (noun): a typical example of something

Example: The hero is an archetype often found in literature.

Best for: learners who already know "standard" or "representative"; GRE Verbal (Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence); SAT Reading & Writing (Words in Context).

Synonyms for archetype

archetype in a Sentence

  1. The hero is an archetype often found in literature.

Why archetype Matters for GRE & SAT

"archetype" is a noun that means "a typical example of something" closely related to words like "standard", "representative", "paradigm". As a word starting with A, it belongs to a cluster of GRE and SAT vocabulary that test-takers often encounter in Verbal Reasoning, Text Completion, and Reading Comprehension sections.

On the GRE, understanding "archetype" helps you distinguish between closely related answer choices in Sentence Equivalence questions. On the SAT, recognizing this word in context strengthens your performance on Craft & Structure and Words in Context questions. Seeing how "archetype" is used in sentences — like the examples above — builds the contextual understanding that standardized tests reward.

Study tip: Start with the definition and part of speech (noun). Then learn its 3 synonyms to build a word network. Finally, practice with spaced repetition to move "archetype" into long-term memory.

How to Remember archetype

One effective way to remember "archetype" (noun) is to group it with similar words you already know: "standard" and "representative" and "paradigm". When you encounter "archetype" on a test, these synonym connections help you quickly recall its meaning — "a typical example of something".

Use flashcard apps with spaced repetition to review "archetype" at increasing intervals until it becomes automatic.

  • abate — decrease in intensity; lessen
  • aberrant — deviating from what is normal or expected
  • aberration — A departure from what is normal or expected
  • abet — assist or encourage, usually in wrongdoing
  • abeyance — suspension; temporary suppression
  • abhor — detest or regard with deep hatred
  • abide — tolerate, follow, or accept
  • abject — most unfortunate or miserable

More Vocabulary Words Starting with A

  • abate — decrease in intensity; lessen
  • aberrant — deviating from what is normal or expected
  • aberration — A departure from what is normal or expected
  • abet — assist or encourage, usually in wrongdoing
  • abeyance — suspension; temporary suppression
  • abeyance — suspension; temporary suppression
  • abhor — detest or regard with deep hatred
  • abide — tolerate, follow, or accept
  • abide — tolerate, follow, or accept
  • abject — most unfortunate or miserable