as in diminutive
of a size that is less than average because of the summer drought, harvests have definitely been subnormal this year

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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 Snow flurries could last into Monday, the cold staying through Tuesday with a temperature rebound of sorts into the still subnormal 50s by the middle of next week. Tom Skilling, chicagotribune.com, 15 Apr. 2018 An amplified jet stream pattern that has brought subnormal temperatures to eastern portions of North America and unseasonable warmth to the West is forecast to continue much of the workweek. Tom Skilling, chicagotribune.com, 11 Dec. 2017 Sunday marked our fifth straight day of subnormal readings. Tom Skilling, chicagotribune.com, 27 Aug. 2017 Resulting northwest wind flow will bring to the area temperatures more typical of mid-May, making this the only weekend this month with subnormal readings. Tom Skilling, chicagotribune.com, 23 June 2017 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 Another day of subnormal temperatures is slated for Monday before winds shift to a west-to-east orientation. Tom Skilling, chicagotribune.com, 25 June 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for subnormal
Adjective
  • While cultivated throughout Germany and in limited quantities throughout continental Europe, the diminutive white grape, often compared to grüner veltliner or an unoaked chardonnay, rarely gets much attention.
    Anna Lee Iijima, Chicago Tribune, 13 May 2025
  • That led to a song-and-dance number in which Brunson honored other diminutive celebrities, like the gymnast Simone Biles and the rapper Kendrick Lamar, as well as the pop star Sabrina Carpenter, who joined her in a cameo appearance.
    Dave Itzkoff, New York Times, 4 May 2025
Adjective
  • Ellie finds a small fishing boat to take her across the water to the aquarium.
    Samantha Stutsman, People.com, 26 May 2025
  • Pay Attention to Heavy Metals Some chocolate contains small amounts of cadmium and lead—and dark chocolate tends to be the bigger offender.
    Sherri Gordon, Health, 26 May 2025
Adjective
  • Fortunately, the fan who was hit showed little to none sign that anything unusual had happened.
    Julio Cesar Valdera Morales, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 May 2025
  • And while most Americans have heard about the stock market fluctuations, 20 percent have heard little about them or nothing at all.
    Ruth Igielnik, New York Times, 18 May 2025
Adjective
  • But, with the team’s MLB-best 29-15 record affording them just a one-game division lead so far this year, it’s already become clear that fine margins could matter this season.
    Jack Harris, Los Angeles Times, 16 May 2025
  • Tropical Fruits: Sweet, Juicy and Always Ready to Party Passport: Explore the finest destinations and experiences around the world in the Forbes Passport newsletter.
    Emily Price, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025
Adjective
  • Built with water-resistant polyester, this spacious duffel has a dedicated shoe compartment, an end pocket for wet or dirty clothes, a multi-pocket compression panel for organization, and an interior divider curtain that can be removed to hold bulky clothes or outdoor gear.
    Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 17 Jan. 2025
  • The Vault by Vans x Nicole McLaughlin Collection includes special-edition versions of the iconic Vans Slip-On VP VR3 LX with adaptations—think canvas pockets and easy-carry heel straps—inspired by a classic multi-pocket garden tote and workwear bucket bag often used on construction job sites.
    Hollyanna McCollom, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Mar. 2023

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Cite this Entry

“Subnormal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/subnormal. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

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