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

Das, who shepherded India’s demonetization initiative in 2016 prior to his time at the central bank, was seen as key to normalizing the RBI’s relationship with the government and steering India through the economic turbulence of the Covid-19 pandemic. —Ruxandra Iordache, CNBC, 9 Dec. 2024

Experts say this could signal the start of a dangerous feedback loop, where violence is normalized and encouraged online. —Amanda Castro, Newsweek, 9 Dec. 2024

The Italians had decided to normalize with Assad and had sent an ambassador for the first time back to Damascus last month. —Isaac Chotiner, The New Yorker, 9 Dec. 2024

Changing the narrative will help normalize financial ambition in women. —Melissa Houston, Forbes, 7 Dec. 2024

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