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

Jainism therefore strongly encourages ahimsa toward all living beings, from animals to microbes, and vegetarianism is the norm. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 Sep. 2026

The owner’s suite is positioned forward on the upper deck, rather than on the main deck as is the norm. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 30 Sep. 2026

Why cold water washing is gaining ground Three forces explain why washing clothes in cold water is shifting from an alternative to the norm. — Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 28 Sep. 2026

Via Pignasecca 17 Pioneering, award-winning pizzaiolo Ciro Salvo is known for his particularly digestible dough, which is lighter and crispier than the norm, thanks to the higher percentage of water to flour. — Nicky Swallow, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Sep. 2026

Rhymes for the norm

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