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

Tales like Bartley’s and Foley’s have become the norm in postseason FBS football outside the confines of the College Football Playoff — young and inexperienced players thrust into action due to waves of players hitting the transfer portal. —Ryan Pritt, Charlotte Observer, 3 Jan. 2026

Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Vieques is between December and April, when the days are relatively breezier and sunny skies and clear waters are the norm. —Carley Rojas Avila, Travel + Leisure, 2 Jan. 2026

As states continue to act, transparency will likely become the norm rather than the exception in healthcare AI. —Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 2 Jan. 2026

That has remained the norm ever since and has been fairly well received. —R. Eric Thomas, Mercury News, 30 Dec. 2025

Rhymes for the norm

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