Archetypal
hardNeutral tonear-kih-TY-pul
adjective
Definition
Very typical of a certain kind of person or thing
Memory hook
ARCHE-TYPE-al: the ORIGINAL TYPE from which all others are copied - the classic model.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The villain was the archetypal bad guy with no redeeming qualities.”
“This is an archetypal example of Gothic architecture.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The villain was the ______ bad guy with no redeeming qualities.”
Show answer
archetypal
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Archetypal is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "quintessential" or "prototypical" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "atypical".
Related GRE Words
quintessential
Representing the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class
aberrant
Deviating from what is normal or expected
aberration
A departure from what is normal, usual, or expected
abeyance
a state of temporary suspension or inactivity
abscond
To leave secretly and hide, especially to avoid arrest or prosecution
abstemious
Moderate in eating and drinking; self-restrained
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