type
/taɪp/
The term functions as a primary classifier to group objects or individuals based on shared attributes. It often implies a degree of standardization or a recognizable pattern that allows for quick identification within a larger set. When applied to human personality or attraction, the word shifts from a neutral classification to a subjective preference. In this social context, it describes a recurring set of traits that an individual finds appealing, often suggesting a predictable pattern in their romantic choices.
Countable as a category.
💬Casual Conversation
The client is a total nightmare type.
Just lean into the synergy and it'll be fine.
Meanings
Examples
I am just not the type to enjoy camping.
What type of car are you looking for?
Listen, he is exactly the type of liar I hate!
I can't believe you're this type of person!
Look, I'm not the type to complain about the pay.
Is this the type of software we actually need?
Seriously, what type of boss does that?
I just don't think I'm her type at all.
What type of wine goes with this fish?
Collocations & Compounds
blood type
the classification of blood based on antigens
I need to know your blood type for the form.
personality type
a classification of human character traits
She has a very dominant personality type.
prototype
the first or preliminary model of something
The engineers are testing the prototype now.
type cast
to assign an actor to the same kind of role
He is always type cast as the villain.
typical type
a representative example of a category
He is the typical type of suburban dad.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek 'typos', meaning 'impression, figure, or die', entering Middle English via Old French 'type'. Originally referred to a symbol or a characteristic form; later evolved in the 19th century to refer to the characters used in printing presses (movable type), which subsequently led to the verb meaning to operate a typewriter.