Entry Word: conventional

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 accepted, used, or practiced by most people <conventional wisdom holds that an incumbent president has an overwhelming advantage over his opponent> — see current 1
2 based on customs usually handed down from a previous generation <tried to break from the conventional attitudes regarding the proper roles for men and women> — see traditional 1
3 following or agreeing with established form, custom, or rules <conventional courtesy demands that the bridal couple send written thank-you notes for their gifts> — see formal 1