normalize

verb

nor·​mal·​ize ˈnȯr-mə-ˌlīz How to pronounce normalize (audio)
normalized; normalizing; normalizes

transitive verb

1
: to make (something) conform to or reduce (something) to a norm or standard
… a standard written language that by 1776 had become normalized in grammar, spelling, and pronunciation.E. D. Hirsch, Jr.
2
mathematics : to make (something) normal (as by a transformation of variables)
3
: to bring or restore to a normal condition
normalize relations between two countries
… soluble fibers that help to normalize blood sugar.Jane E. Brody
4
: to allow or encourage (something considered extreme or taboo) to become viewed as normal
Let's normalize real talk around mental health.Cynthia Fowler
… helping to normalize bullying and negative behaviors as acceptable forms of interaction …Helena Duch
Mothers around the world are still fighting to normalize breastfeeding in public.Angela Andaloro
normalizable adjective

Examples of normalize in a Sentence

The drug normalizes heart function. The talks are aimed at normalizing relations between the countries. It took years for the political situation in the country to normalize.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The competitive culture in tech often normalizes extreme work demands—seven-day workweeks, late nights and minimal downtime. Pavi Theva, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025 Such assertions, if backed by documentary evidence or credible corroboration, could reignite calls for international accountability and further isolate the Maduro government, which has spent years trying to normalize relations with global powers and ease economic sanctions. Antonio Maria Delgado, Miami Herald, 25 June 2025 But federal workers are not here to normalize harm. Alissa Tafti, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 June 2025 And the commodification of women was normalized — treating prostitution as just a job. Sonia Ossorio, New York Daily News, 21 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for normalize

Word History

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of normalize was in 1847

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Normalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/normalize. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

normalize

verb
nor·​mal·​ize ˈnȯr-mə-ˌlīz How to pronounce normalize (audio)
normalized; normalizing
: to make normal or average
normalization noun

Medical Definition

normalize

transitive verb
nor·​mal·​ize
variants or British normalise
normalized or British normalised; normalizing or British normalising
: to make conform to or reduce to a norm or standard
normalize blood pressure
normalization noun
or British normalisation

More from Merriam-Webster on normalize

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