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.

---

Etymology

Origin of single standard

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

single standard

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

A single standard of human rights should apply.

From Salon ● Mar. 24, 2024

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

At that time the Nations declared almost unanimously in favor of a single standard of gold.

From Twenty Years of Congress, Volume 2 From Lincoln to Garfield, with a Review of the Events Which Led to the Political Revolution of 1860 by James Gillespie Blaine