subnormal

adjective

ˌsəb-ˈnȯr-məl How to pronounce subnormal (audio)
Definition of subnormalnext
as in diminutive
of a size that is less than average because of the summer drought, harvests have definitely been subnormal this year

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of subnormal Quite simply, normal human consciousness is optimized for normal human functioning, but is subnormal for achieving goals beyond the ordinary. — Brett Steenbarger, Forbes, 30 May 2021 Flow off the 50-degree waters of Lake Michigan will bring our first subnormal temperatures in 10 days. — Tom Skilling, chicagotribune.com, 31 May 2018 Everybody knew that comics were for children and for intellectually subnormal people, whereas graphic novel sounds like a much more sophisticated proposition. — Adam Rogers, WIRED, 23 Feb. 2009
Recent Examples of Synonyms for subnormal
  1. diminutive
  2. small
  3. little
  4. fine
Adjective
  • For the second World Cup in a row, the final is settled deep into extra time with the only goal from a diminutive midfielder.
    — Adam Hurrey, New York Times, 17 July 2026
  • Despite its name, the island’s diminutive national instrument has 10 strings in five courses, and possesses a bright, sunny tone that cuts to the front of an ensemble.
    — Randy McMullen, Mercury News, 16 July 2026
Definition of diminutive
Adjective
  • In contrast, instruments on the FireSat satellites will be able to detect small brush and roadside fires 16 feet across.
    — Eric Niiler, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026
  • At the Cannes Film Festival in May, the model Toni Garrn made a striking appearance in a blue-black bustier dress embroidered with small petals.
    — Amy Verner, Vogue, 6 July 2026
Definition of small
Adjective
  • The latest appearance will do little to quell criticism of Infantino, who is standing currently unopposed for re-election as FIFA president.
    — Adam Crafton, New York Times, 18 July 2026
  • At a press conference with Ontario Premier Doug Ford, government officials said that the fire had started unusually close to the community in Collins, leaving little time to respond.
    — Alessandra Freitas, CNN Money, 18 July 2026
Definition of little
Adjective
  • The 40-year-old goalkeeper, who only turned professional aged 25, helped Cape Verde hold the European champions to a goalless draw with a string of fine saves.
    — Tom Burrows, New York Times, 12 July 2026
  • This is common when the sensor gets a coating of fine dust on it.
    — Tim Carter, Hartford Courant, 11 July 2026
Definition of fine

Browse Nearby Words

submit (to)
subnormal
suboptimal
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Cite this Entry

“Subnormal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/subnormal. Accessed 19 Jul. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of subnormal for Spanish Speakers

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