normalize
verb
nor·mal·ize
ˈnȯr-mə-ˌlīz 
normalized; normalizing; normalizes
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.
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
Jane E. Brody4
: to allow or encourage (something considered extreme or taboo) to become viewed as normal
Let's normalize real talk around mental health.—Cynthia Fowler
Cynthia Fowler… helping to normalize bullying and negative behaviors as acceptable forms of interaction …—Helena Duch
Helena DuchMothers around the world are still fighting to normalize breastfeeding in public.—Angela Andaloro
Angela Andaloro
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
In 1979, after the U.S. and China normalized trade relations, Peterson said, American fisheries rushed to harvest sharks for fins and other parts served as delicacies in China.
—Rick Jervis, USA TODAY, 5 Aug. 2024
Both supporters and opponents want congressional action: Those who favor the currencies expect legislation could normalize investments and increase the number of people investing.
—Dave Boucher, Detroit Free Press, 5 Aug. 2024
The announcement marked a fresh ongoing effort by the BOJ to normalize its monetary policy after more than a decade of debt-buying.
—Laura He, CNN, 2 Aug. 2024
On the other side of the ledger, the U.S. could theoretically come to the depressing conclusion that Maduro is likely to be Venezuela’s leader at least until 2030 — and likely longer — and normalize relations in the hope that full U.S. engagement will temper the man’s instincts.
—Daniel Depetris, Twin Cities, 1 Aug. 2024
See all Example Sentences for normalize 
Rick Jervis, USA TODAY, 5 Aug. 2024
Both supporters and opponents want congressional action: Those who favor the currencies expect legislation could normalize investments and increase the number of people investing.
—Dave Boucher, Detroit Free Press, 5 Aug. 2024
The announcement marked a fresh ongoing effort by the BOJ to normalize its monetary policy after more than a decade of debt-buying.
—Laura He, CNN, 2 Aug. 2024
On the other side of the ledger, the U.S. could theoretically come to the depressing conclusion that Maduro is likely to be Venezuela’s leader at least until 2030 — and likely longer — and normalize relations in the hope that full U.S. engagement will temper the man’s instincts.
—Daniel Depetris, Twin Cities, 1 Aug. 2024
See all Example Sentences for normalize
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'normalize.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Cite this Entry
“Normalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/normalize. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
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
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