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

As early as the mid-20th century, studies of commercial diet programs showed that while short-term weight loss was common, regaining weight long term was the norm. —Amy J. Sheer, The Conversation, 5 Feb. 2026

Blazers and bodycon dresses are the norm. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Feb. 2026

Midseason moves haven’t been the norm for the Bulls, who went three consecutive years (2022-24) without making a single deadline trade under executive vice president of basketball operations Artūras Karnišovas. —Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 5 Feb. 2026

Instead, the norm has become 8-12 episodes, usually telling a singular story that's meant to be watched in a few days. —Matthew Razak, Space.com, 4 Feb. 2026

Rhymes for the norm

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