normal curve

American  

[nawr-muhl kurv] / ˈnɔr məl ˈkɜrv /

noun

Statistics.

1. a bell curve showing a particular distribution of probability over the values of a random variable.

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normal curve British  

noun

1. statistics a symmetrical bell-shaped curve representing the probability density function of a normal distribution. The area of a vertical section of the curve represents the probability that the random variable lies between the values which delimit the section

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Etymology

Origin of normal curve

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

While in a normal curve, Super Cruise will stay closer to the inside lane line, which is how most humans drive.

From The Verge • Jul. 23, 2021

Some of those with psychiatric risk—Carrie Fisher, David Foster Wallace, Kurt Cobain—turn out to illuminate reality in ways those inside the normal curve cannot.

From Time • Jan. 9, 2017

Dr. Ranjan Sudan, vice chair of education for the Duke University Department of Surgery, says the acceptance barrier is only a temporary one, apt to follow the normal curve of innovation.

From Newsweek • Apr. 11, 2015

The number –1099 is way out in the left tail of the normal curve.

From Textbooks • Sep. 19, 2013

If we wish to develop a preventive experiment the yeast cake may be incorporated in the diet from the first and the amount necessary to prevent deviation from the normal curve determined.

From The Vitamine Manual by Eddy, Walter H.