The term 'prime example' can be broken down into three crossword solutions: PARAGON (7 letters), EPITOME (7 letters), and ARCHETYPE (9 letters). A PARAGON is an ideal example of a particular quality, while an EPITOME is a perfect example or embodiment of a certain quality. An ARCHETYPE is a perfect example that serves as a model for others of the same type. All three words refer to something that is considered to be the best or most exemplary of its kind.