Definition of normnext
1
as in normal
what is typical of a group, class, or series sales figures that are within the norm of a store of that size

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2
as in standards
norms plural the code of good conduct for an individual or group societal norms dictate that murder is wrong

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How is the word norm distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of norm are average, mean, and median. While all these words mean "something that represents a middle point," norm means the average of performance of a significantly large group, class, or grade.

scores about the norm for fifth grade arithmetic

When is it sensible to use average instead of norm?

The synonyms average and norm are sometimes interchangeable, but average is the quotient obtained by dividing the sum total of a set of figures by the number of figures.

scored an average of 85 on tests

When might mean be a better fit than norm?

The words mean and norm can be used in similar contexts, but mean may be the simple average or it may represent value midway between two extremes.

a high of 70° and a low of 50° give a mean of 60°

When can median be used instead of norm?

Although the words median and norm have much in common, median applies to the value that represents the point at which there are as many instances above as there are below.

average of a group of persons earning 3, 4, 5, 8, and 10 dollars an hour is 6 dollars, whereas the median is 5 dollars

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 norm If the researchers are right, Earth may be less a cosmic norm and more a fortunate exception — a planet that hit a rare chemical jackpot early on. Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 10 Feb. 2026 According to the World Health Organization, most developing Asian countries spend just 2–3% of GDP on health, and in many cases public funding amounts to less than $150 per person annually, compared with more than $4,000 per person under OECD norms. Abrar Mir, Fortune, 9 Feb. 2026 There remains hesitation from many to deviate from norms by investing in personal security, but boardrooms are increasingly intervening and pressuring CEOs to do so, Krummrich said. Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 8 Feb. 2026 Collaborative power and self-organizing citizenship became norms in the Twin Cities and continue today. Harry Boyte, Twin Cities, 8 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for norm
Recent Examples of Synonyms for norm
Noun
  • This new normal is particularly evident in places actively shaping their economic future, such as Dubai.
    Abdulla Belhoul, Fortune, 4 Feb. 2026
  • Temperatures will gradually warm into the 20s by Saturday afternoon, but that’s still about 20 degrees below normal for this time of year, the weather service said on social media.
    Kendrick Calfee January 31, Kansas City Star, 31 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The surveys show widespread skepticism that governments can really fix problems like the affordability crisis, rising inequality, declining upward mobility, and stagnating or declining living standards.
    Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 10 Feb. 2026
  • Tesla’s questionable qualifications To qualify for a voucher, manufacturers must obtain a zero-emission powertrain certification showing the vehicle meets certain performance standards.
    Tony Briscoe, Los Angeles Times, 9 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The Gem State’s generosity is supported by above-average volunteer rates and neighborliness, according to My Counselor.
    Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 13 Feb. 2026
  • The rate is well below the national average of 93%.
    Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 13 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Pivotal's quality management system is also certified by SAE International, which sets global aviation safety standards.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 8 Feb. 2026
  • While that is the standard that would be considered in a civil case, local investigators are also looking into whether any state laws were violated.
    Andy Rose, CNN Money, 7 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Norm.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/norm. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

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