normalize

verb

nor·​mal·​ize ˈnȯr-mə-ˌlīz How to pronounce normalize (audio)
normalized; normalizing; normalizes
Synonyms of normalizenext

transitive verb

1
: to make (something) conform to or reduce (something) to a norm or standard
… a standard written language that by 1776 had become normalized in grammar, spelling, and pronunciation.E. D. Hirsch, Jr.
2
mathematics : to make (something) normal (as by a transformation of variables)
3
: to bring or restore to a normal condition
normalize relations between two countries
… soluble fibers that help to normalize blood sugar.Jane E. Brody
4
: to allow or encourage (something considered extreme or taboo) to become viewed as normal
Let's normalize real talk around mental health.Cynthia Fowler
… helping to normalize bullying and negative behaviors as acceptable forms of interaction …Helena Duch
Mothers around the world are still fighting to normalize breastfeeding in public.Angela Andaloro
normalizable adjective

Examples of normalize in a Sentence

The drug normalizes heart function. The talks are aimed at normalizing relations between the countries. It took years for the political situation in the country to normalize.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Driven by blunt ideology rather than the reality of balancing harms, Font and Putnam-Hornstein advance a flawed and damaging premise that child safety requires normalizing and regularizing family separation. Chicago Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026 When asked about keeping higher fares when fuel prices normalize, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said customers have already been willing to pay more for things like extra legroom or seats closer to the front. Chris Isidore, CNN Money, 26 Apr. 2026 The first direct negotiations between the two states since 1993 are intended as preparatory meetings to shape future talks on a deal to normalize ties between the countries. David Brennan, ABC News, 23 Apr. 2026 But with Orbán out, Hungary will seemingly focus on repairing and normalizing EU ties. Rafi Schwartz, TheWeek, 23 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for normalize

Word History

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of normalize was in 1847

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Normalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.grautoblog.com/dictionary/normalize. Accessed 28 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

normalize

verb
nor·​mal·​ize ˈnȯr-mə-ˌlīz How to pronounce normalize (audio)
normalized; normalizing
: to make normal or average
normalization noun

Medical Definition

normalize

transitive verb
nor·​mal·​ize
variants or British normalise
normalized or British normalised; normalizing or British normalising
: to make conform to or reduce to a norm or standard
normalize blood pressure
normalization noun
or British normalisation

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