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
In the report, more than 35 former employees describe a workplace culture where intimidation, aggressive behavior and unpaid labor were the norm inside one of the world’s best restaurants.
—
Brock Keeling, Oc Register, 12 Mar. 2026
Way back when, 90-day windows were the norm but the industry average has settled on roughly 45 days since the great COVID box office reset.
—Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 12 Mar. 2026
Garnett said delays in moving an inmate to an SSLC are the norm.
—Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Mar. 2026
Modern design is another aesthetic in which open shelves are the norm.
—Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for the norm
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Brock Keeling, Oc Register, 12 Mar. 2026
Way back when, 90-day windows were the norm but the industry average has settled on roughly 45 days since the great COVID box office reset.
—Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 12 Mar. 2026
Garnett said delays in moving an inmate to an SSLC are the norm.
—Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Mar. 2026
Modern design is another aesthetic in which open shelves are the norm.
—Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Mar. 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 14 Mar. 2026.
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