the norm

noun

1

: an average level of development or achievement

She scored well above/below the norm in math.

2

: something (such as a behavior or way of doing something) that is usual or expected

Smaller families have become the norm.

Examples of the norm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Hersheys chose this mission at a time when caring for orphans and children in destitute families in institutional settings was still the norm. — Thomas Adam, The Conversation, 16 July 2026

Where the film diverts from the norm lies in the unique, complicated characters and their weird, tortured even touching relationships. — Randy Myers, Mercury News, 16 July 2026

Conversations about intimacy and body image are the norm, offering support in ways doctors may not. — Katie Camero, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 July 2026

But Mikhail is acting director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, where the previous leader, Vinay Prasad, was decidedly outside the norm. — Lizzy Lawrence, STAT, 15 July 2026

Rhymes for the norm

• brainstorm
• conform
• deform
• firestorm
• hailstorm
• inform
• landform
• lukewarm
• perform
• planform
• platform
• preform