normal

UK: ˈnɔːməl | US: ˈnɔːrməl

Definition
  1. adj. conforming to a standard; usual, typical, or expected

  2. adj. (Mathematics) perpendicular; at a right angle

  3. n. the usual or average state, degree, or condition

Structure
norm <rule, pattern>al <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "normal" derives from the Latin norma, meaning "carpenter’s square" or "rule," symbolizing a standard of measurement. By the 17th century, it evolved in French (normal) to denote conformity to a rule or pattern. The suffix -al (from Latin -alis) forms adjectives, giving "normal" its modern sense of "typical" or "standard." The mathematical meaning ("perpendicular") reflects the original idea of a square’s right angle as a foundational standard.

Examples
  1. Her blood pressure returned to normal after the treatment.

  2. It’s normal to feel nervous before a big presentation.

  3. The teacher emphasized the importance of normal distribution in statistics.

  4. The two lines intersect at a normal angle.

  5. Despite the chaos, he tried to maintain a sense of normalcy.