Prototype
In plain terms
A pattern that creates objects by cloning an existing instance.
Going deeper
The Prototype pattern produces new objects by copying a prototype rather than constructing from scratch, useful when creation is costly. It clones instead of builds.
Under the hood
Requires careful deep vs. shallow copying; JavaScript's prototypal inheritance embodies the idea.
Examples
Object cloning, JavaScript prototypes, copying configured instances, deep copies.
Think of it like...
Like photocopying a filled-out form instead of writing each one from blank.