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
More than a high-stakes thriller (though there are plenty of those elements here), the show is a highly chaotic depiction of family, ambition and the courage to step outside the norm.
—
Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 9 Apr. 2026
Incentivizing high token use is becoming the norm in Silicon Valley.
—Jacqueline Munis, Fortune, 9 Apr. 2026
Just getting to this point, where competing in meaningful games on national television is the norm, is a sign of the culture shift within the Charlotte Hornets.
—Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 8 Apr. 2026
The term of the contract — four years — is a major departure from the norm, which has long been three years.
—Katie Kilkenny, HollywoodReporter, 8 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for the norm
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Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 9 Apr. 2026
Incentivizing high token use is becoming the norm in Silicon Valley.
—Jacqueline Munis, Fortune, 9 Apr. 2026
Just getting to this point, where competing in meaningful games on national television is the norm, is a sign of the culture shift within the Charlotte Hornets.
—Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 8 Apr. 2026
The term of the contract — four years — is a major departure from the norm, which has long been three years.
—Katie Kilkenny, HollywoodReporter, 8 Apr. 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 15 Apr. 2026.
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