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
Chronic illness has become the norm rather than the exception in American life.
—
The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 9 Jan. 2026
In my view, the process followed was different from the norm.
—Cristina Palacios, Fortune, 9 Jan. 2026
But what Ole Miss has had to deal with is beyond the norm, with Kiffin in the villain’s role.
—Miami Herald, 9 Jan. 2026
Growing up with Brian and Wendy Froud as parents meant fantasy creatures were the norm.
—Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 8 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for the norm
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The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 9 Jan. 2026
In my view, the process followed was different from the norm.
—Cristina Palacios, Fortune, 9 Jan. 2026
But what Ole Miss has had to deal with is beyond the norm, with Kiffin in the villain’s role.
—Miami Herald, 9 Jan. 2026
Growing up with Brian and Wendy Froud as parents meant fantasy creatures were the norm.
—Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 8 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for the norm
Cite this Entry
“The norm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20norm. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.
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