normalize

verb

nor·​mal·​ize ˈnȯr-mə-ˌlīz 

normalized; normalizing; normalizes

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

ˈnȯr-mə-ˌlī-zə-bəl 

adjective

Synonyms

• formalize
• homogenize
• regularize
• standardize

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

If the Trump administration won't reign him in, business leaders and consumers should before his influence normalizes even more dangerous rhetoric. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 12 Feb. 2025

Carotenoid-rich extracts from sweet potatoes have been shown to prevent fat accumulation, reduce weight gain, and normalize triglyceride levels in test tube and animal studies.27 For maximum health benefits, roast or bake sweet potatoes with the skin on, as this is where much of the fiber is found. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 11 Feb. 2025

But even if that’s true, fans are justified to call out a response that normalizes Trump’s current behavior as if this were any other president. —Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 7 Feb. 2025

The Embedded segment also experienced a revenue decline of 33% to $3.6 billion as customers normalized inventory levels. —Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 5 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Kids Definition

normalize

verb

nor·​mal·​ize ˈnȯr-mə-ˌlīz 

normalized; normalizing

: to make normal or average

normalization

ˌnȯr-mə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

Medical Definition

normalize

transitive verb

nor·​mal·​ize

variants or British normalise

ˈnȯr-mə-ˌlīz 

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

ˌnȯr-mə-lə-ˈzā-shən