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
Long security lines that leave travelers waiting for hours are becoming the norm at airports across the country.
—
Asal Rezaei, CBS News, 19 Mar. 2026
This game marked a rare instance in which Ohtani just pitched, but he is expected to hit during his regular-season start days, as per the norm.
—Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 18 Mar. 2026
Regardless, the realities of pan-Asian co-production means that collaboration across cultures and countries is becoming the norm than the exception.
—Marcus Lim, Variety, 18 Mar. 2026
His phone was left behind at the house, which is out of the norm, authorities said.
—Luke Barr, ABC News, 16 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for the norm
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Asal Rezaei, CBS News, 19 Mar. 2026
This game marked a rare instance in which Ohtani just pitched, but he is expected to hit during his regular-season start days, as per the norm.
—Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 18 Mar. 2026
Regardless, the realities of pan-Asian co-production means that collaboration across cultures and countries is becoming the norm than the exception.
—Marcus Lim, Variety, 18 Mar. 2026
His phone was left behind at the house, which is out of the norm, authorities said.
—Luke Barr, ABC News, 16 Mar. 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 24 Mar. 2026.
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