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Prototype-based programming
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<p>Prototype-based programming is a style of <a href="/facts/Object-oriented_programming/TxNMEcao">object-oriented programming</a> in which behavior reuse (known as <a href="/facts/Inheritance_(programming)/a7R1xv8n">inheritance</a>) is performed via a process of reusing existing <a href="/facts/Object_(programming)/eX99dtAw">objects</a> that serve as <a href="/facts/Prototype/q0yPLYdb">prototypes</a>. This model can also be known as <i>prototypal</i>, <i>prototype-oriented,</i> <i>classless</i>, or <i>instance-based</i> programming. </p><p>Prototype-based programming uses the process generalized objects, which can then be cloned and extended. Using fruit as an example, a "fruit" object would represent the properties and functionality of fruit in general. A "banana" object would be cloned from the "fruit" object and general properties specific to bananas would be appended. Each individual "banana" object would be cloned from the generic "banana" object. Compare to the <a href="/facts/Class-based_programming/n3wudt1B">class-based</a> paradigm, where a "fruit" <i>class</i> would be extended by a "banana" <i>class</i>. </p>