single standard

American  

[sing-guhl stan-derd] / ˈsɪŋ gəl ˈstæn dərd /

noun

1. a single set of principles or rules applying to everyone, as a single moral code applying to both men and women, especially in sexual behavior.

2. monometallism.

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Etymology

Origin of single standard

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85

Example Sentences

There is no single, standard definition of middle class, or upper middle class, and what counts as a hefty income in one city can feel paltry in another.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

But with so many competing labels - as well as confusion over the definition of "AI-free" - experts say consumers are in danger of being left confused unless a single standard can be agreed on.

From BBC • Mar. 15, 2026

There is no single standard for a supermajority, though the term generally is equated with whatever threshold is needed to override a gubernatorial veto.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 16, 2023

The association said the industry has agreed to a single standard, committing to stopping trains and inspecting bearings that read 170 degrees higher than the surrounding air.

From Washington Post • Mar. 8, 2023

The single standard of gold, therefore, is maintained by the creditor nations in the face of the admitted fact that but $50,000,000 of that metal are annually added to the money stocks.

From Money: Speech of Hon. John P. Jones, of Nevada, On the Free Coinage of Silver; in the United States Senate, May 12 and 13, 1890 by Jones, John P. (John Percival)