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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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 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
  • In March 2020, paleontologists reported an extraordinary finding: a diminutive skull, just over a centimeter long, preserved in amber.
    Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025
  • Thomas is a kinetic, diminutive woman whose energy belies her years.
    Jelani Cobb, New Yorker, 28 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Although set in the small city, the movie was reportedly filmed in several locations in Louisiana.
    Taylor Ardrey, USA Today, 2 May 2025
  • India also unleashed several punitive measures against Pakistan, including suspending its participation in a water-sharing treaty that is critical for its smaller neighbor.
    Anupreeta Das, New York Times, 1 May 2025
Adjective
  • His use of a century’s old wartime law to deport undocumented migrants with little or no due process to a notorious prison in El Salvador under scrutiny after the administration deported at least one migrant there by mistake.
    ABC News, ABC News, 4 May 2025
  • At the time, Colter believed that Russell (Jensen Ackles) was responsible for killing Dad, and Mom did little to dissuade him.
    Ryan Schwartz, TVLine, 4 May 2025
Adjective
  • Shortly after a fine break, Journalism had gotten forced toward the rail in the classic Derby crush but was deftly piloted clear by jockey Umberto Rispoli.
    Guy Martin, Forbes.com, 4 May 2025
  • While medium-width sneakers and the occasional flat fit fine, wide-width sandals are usually a requirement.
    Shea Simmons, People.com, 3 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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“Subnormal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/subnormal. Accessed 11 May. 2025.

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