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
Powerful oil industry advocates and conservative figures have been pushing to normalize relations with Venezuela, including activist Laura Loomer, who has publicly championed lifting sanctions on Venezuela’s energy sector.
—Antonio Maria Delgado, Miami Herald, 18 July 2025
Later that day, SZA circled back to emphasize her warning about the dangers of prolonged and normalized everyday use of AI.
—Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 16 July 2025
Maher is often outspoken about normalizing all body types.
—Vanessa Etienne, People.com, 14 July 2025
Caesar Act supporters had advocated for the 2019 law’s renewal in the face of the former Biden administration’s quiet negotiations allowing countries to normalize relations with Assad and ease sanctions.
—Laura Kelly, The Hill, 9 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for normalize
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Antonio Maria Delgado, Miami Herald, 18 July 2025
Later that day, SZA circled back to emphasize her warning about the dangers of prolonged and normalized everyday use of AI.
—Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 16 July 2025
Maher is often outspoken about normalizing all body types.
—Vanessa Etienne, People.com, 14 July 2025
Caesar Act supporters had advocated for the 2019 law’s renewal in the face of the former Biden administration’s quiet negotiations allowing countries to normalize relations with Assad and ease sanctions.
—Laura Kelly, The Hill, 9 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 25 Jul. 2025.
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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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