new normal

American  

[noo nawr-muhl, nyoo] / ˈnu ˈnɔr məl, ˈnyu /

noun

1. a current situation, social custom, etc., that is different from what has been experienced or done before but is expected to become usual or typical.

   We are facing a new normal that includes raging forest fires and prolonged drought.

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Etymology

Origin of new normal

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

Stall is “the new normal for many,” Kamath said, and individuals should expect it and try to prevent it.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026

In this new normal, Melius Research analyst James West argues that supermajors like Chevron are best positioned to take advantage, as they can quickly ramp up exploration, bolstered by strong balance sheets.

From Barron's • May 19, 2026

Here’s the tough news: This could be the new normal for a while.

From MarketWatch • May 12, 2026

In some ways, it’s become a new normal for Haitian Springfielders to anticipate the worst, and for their neighbors to fight against a government they see as threatening to rip their families apart.

From Salon • Apr. 30, 2026

The mind can only take so much weirdness before it accepts it as a new normal.

From "Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky" by Kwame Mbalia