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
But pre-show cosmetic interventions haven’t always been the norm.
—
Erika W. Smith, Allure, 26 Feb. 2026
Although Williams’ xFIP and FIP weren’t far from the norm, his BB% was down.
—Jake Ciely, New York Times, 26 Feb. 2026
That market volatility, with its often wild swings due to shifting geopolitics, will be the norm for the foreseeable future, adds another layer of complexity to the issue, Hess said.
—Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 26 Feb. 2026
But equities have come a long way, and 20% YoY appreciation is not the norm.
—Michael Khouw, CNBC, 26 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for the norm
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Erika W. Smith, Allure, 26 Feb. 2026
Although Williams’ xFIP and FIP weren’t far from the norm, his BB% was down.
—Jake Ciely, New York Times, 26 Feb. 2026
That market volatility, with its often wild swings due to shifting geopolitics, will be the norm for the foreseeable future, adds another layer of complexity to the issue, Hess said.
—Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 26 Feb. 2026
But equities have come a long way, and 20% YoY appreciation is not the norm.
—Michael Khouw, CNBC, 26 Feb. 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 28 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
