normative

[ nawr-muh-tiv ]

adjective

1. of or relating to a norm, especially an assumed norm regarded as the standard of correctness in behavior, speech, writing, etc.
2. tending or attempting to establish such a norm, especially by the prescription of rules:

   normative grammar.

3. reflecting the assumption of such a norm or favoring its establishment:

   a normative attitude.

normative

/ ˈnɔːmətɪv /

adjective

1. implying, creating, or prescribing a norm or standard, as in language

   normative grammar

2. expressing value judgments or prescriptions as contrasted with stating facts

   normative economics

3. of, relating to, or based on norms

Derived Forms

• ˈnormatively, adverb
• ˈnormativeness, noun

Other Words From

• non-nor·ma·tive adjective
• nor·ma·tive·ly adverb
• nor·ma·tive·ness noun
• un·nor·ma·tive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of normative¹

First recorded in 1875–80; norm + -ative

Example Sentences

There is still a normative account of good and bad whites, good and bad immigrants, etc.

From Salon

According to Butler, normative society imposes behaviors and expressions that define what is a man or woman to the point where our perception of even corporeal sexual differences is shaped by gendered conventions.

From Salon

Men who do not comply with the Trump regime’s and the American neofascist movement’s normative models of “real manhood” will also be marginalized and punished.

From Salon

It is not a normative claim about Trump's behavior or politics.

From Salon

I've always believed that there are two elements to American security, and the biggest element, and our normative example, is our alliances, our alliances.

From Salon