'prototypical' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'prototypos', where 'protos' meant 'first' and 'typos' meant 'impression' or 'model'.

'prototypical' changed from the noun 'prototype' (borrowed into English from French 'prototype', ultimately from Greek 'prototypos') and was formed into the adjective in English by adding the adjectival suffix '-ical'.

Initially it meant 'relating to the original model or first form', but over time it broadened to mean 'serving as a typical or representative example'.