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

Because everyone grows up with a mom who speaks a language other than the larger family group’s go-to language, multilinguality is the norm. — Popular Science Team, Popular Science, 12 Aug. 2026

The rookie out of Texas Tech had a practice that has become the norm for him. — David Furones, Sun Sentinel, 12 Aug. 2026

In Good Question, Jeff Wagner explains what's allowed on TV and why politics and profanity are becoming the norm. — Jeff Wagner, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026

While seemingly tame, the statements reflect the industry’s immediate public resistance to an order from a US president, which is not the norm. — Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 11 Aug. 2026

Rhymes for the norm

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