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

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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.
Innovation is positive deviance from the norm that creates value. — Jeff Degraff, Fortune, 31 Aug. 2026 In the twenty years since Onimusha has been gone, Soulslike games have become the norm for action titles, and Way of the Sword is no different. — Zackery Cuevas, PC Magazine, 31 Aug. 2026 But the two men also know some individuals can delay the inevitable for years far beyond the norm. — Jay Posner, Los Angeles Times, 28 Aug. 2026 This isn’t unfamiliar territory across college football, where hitting the portal for a few offensive linemen is the norm. — Bob Ferrante, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for the norm

Rhymes for the norm

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Browse Nearby Words

thenoic acid
the norm
the Norse
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Cite this Entry

“The norm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20norm. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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