: the process of creating a first full-scale or fully developed and usually functional form of a new product or service that is created to demonstrate feasibility, detect flaws, gather feedback, etc. : the act of developing and producing a prototype
As you progress, concept development and new product prototype development become indispensable. Prototyping allows you to test ideas and gather user feedback, which is crucial for refining your product.Tabby McFarland

Examples of prototyping in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Every element, from the mattresses and box springs to the toppers, was designed specifically for life at sea, with extensive prototyping at Savoir’s London workshop. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 2 July 2026 The facility supports customers throughout the innovation cycle, from early-stage ideation to near-series prototyping, with capabilities spanning warp knitting, warp preparation and technical textiles. Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 2 July 2026 Expansive coworking spaces dot Woven City, designed to foster spontaneous brainstorming, with plenty of 3D printers scattered throughout for rapid prototyping. Tim Stevens, ArsTechnica, 4 May 2026 While tariffs and pandemic disruptions prompted these moves, China's sophisticated manufacturing ecosystem, rapid prototyping, and extensive supplier networks prove irreplaceable for most products. Izzy Rosenzweig, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for prototyping

Word History

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of prototyping was in 1951

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Cite this Entry

“Prototyping.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prototyping. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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