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

Set during the Yongle Era, Xixi said that Blade of Vengeance would break from the norm and the in-world drama would focus on realism and logic rather than fantastical feats, with the production emphasizing the real location shooting and hard-hitting action. —Abid Rahman, HollywoodReporter, 30 Oct. 2025

Footwear trends are typically short-lived, yet Timberland’s work boot has managed to defy the norm. —Riley Jones, Footwear News, 30 Oct. 2025

As high-bandwidth activities become the norm, unlimited data has shifted from a luxury to a necessity for many customers. —Roxanne Downer, USA Today, 30 Oct. 2025

But the actor turned wellness and lifestyle guru is bucking the norm—first, with that photo that shared skin texture and expression lines, and now by showing, not hiding, her grays. —Veronica Cristino, Vogue, 28 Oct. 2025

Rhymes for the norm

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