Normal
The average, the standard, and what we agree not to question.
How We Say It
norΒ·mΙl
Where It Comes From
Latin normalis β made according to a carpenter's square. From norma β carpenter's square, rule, pattern. Originally a technical term meaning 'at right angles' β perfectly perpendicular β before becoming a social category.
How It's Been Used
The shift from 'normal' as statistical average to 'normal' as social standard is the shift that does the most work. 'That's not normal' can mean it's rare (descriptive) or it's unacceptable (prescriptive). The two meanings are conflated constantly, most harmfully in medical and psychological contexts.