normalize
verb
nor·mal·ize
ˈnȯr-mə-ˌlīz 
normalized; normalizing; normalizes
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.
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
Jane E. Brody4
: to allow or encourage (something considered extreme or taboo) to become viewed as normal
Let's normalize real talk around mental health.—Cynthia Fowler
Cynthia Fowler… helping to normalize bullying and negative behaviors as acceptable forms of interaction …—Helena Duch
Helena DuchMothers around the world are still fighting to normalize breastfeeding in public.—Angela Andaloro
Angela AndaloroExamples 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
The Saudis, whose clout could open the door for other Arab or Muslim countries to join, have expressed interest in normalizing ties with Israel but only if it is accompanied by serious steps toward resolving Israel’s conflict with the Palestinians.
—Tia Goldenberg, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2025
What historical processes happened around her to create this society where violence against women is normalized?
—Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 7 July 2025
The end of hostilities with Iran and the push for peace in Gaza has led Trump and Netanyahu to continue to expand the Abraham Accords and normalize relations between Israel and neighboring Arab states.
—Peter Aitken, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025
The reputational cost of normalizing ties with Israel may be too high for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
—Kelsey Warner, semafor.com, 4 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for normalize
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Tia Goldenberg, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2025
What historical processes happened around her to create this society where violence against women is normalized?
—Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 7 July 2025
The end of hostilities with Iran and the push for peace in Gaza has led Trump and Netanyahu to continue to expand the Abraham Accords and normalize relations between Israel and neighboring Arab states.
—Peter Aitken, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025
The reputational cost of normalizing ties with Israel may be too high for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
—Kelsey Warner, semafor.com, 4 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for normalize
Cite this Entry
“Normalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/normalize. Accessed 17 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
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
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