(~s)
1.
Norms are ways of behaving that are considered ~al in a particular society.
...the commonly accepted ~s of democracy.
...a social ~ that says drunkenness is inappropriate behaviour.
N-COUNT: usu pl, usu with supp
2.
If you say that a situation is the ~, you mean that it is usual and expected.
Families of six or seven are the ~ in Borough Park...
The changes will lead to more flexible leases, and leases nearer to 15 years than the present ~ of 25 years.
N-SING: the N, oft N for/of/in n
3.
A ~ is an official standard or level that organizations are expected to reach.
...an agency which would establish European ~s and co-ordinate national policies to halt pollution.
N-COUNT: usu with supp