Norm/nɔːrm/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Typical Expectation Reflects what's considered usual in a social context or situation. Wearing a business suit is the norm for job interviews. Pro Tip 2/3Implicitly Understood Often not spoken about but understood by members of a certain group. At the dinner table, it's the norm to not use phones. Pro Tip 3/3Group Specific What is a norm can vary significantly from one culture or group to another. Bowing as a greeting is the norm in Japanese culture.