normalcy
Normalcy (noun) means the state of being normal; a return to usual, stable conditions. Example: “After the storm, the town slowly returned to normalcy.”
How to use normalcy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA state of things being normal or back to usual — often used after a period of disruption.
Some style guides consider "normality" the more traditional British form, though "normalcy" is now widely accepted, especially in American English.
"Normality" is more common in British English; "normalcy" is more common in American English, though both are understood everywhere.
Word forms
normalcies plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
After the storm, the town slowly returned to _____.
Etymology
Formed from "normal" plus the suffix "-cy." Though originally used in mathematics, it became widely popular in the US after President Warren G. Harding used it in a famous 1920 speech about "a return to normalcy."
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “normalcy” mean?
The word “normalcy” means the state of being normal; a return to usual, stable conditions. In plain terms, a state of things being normal or back to usual — often used after a period of disruption.
How do you pronounce “normalcy”?
“Normalcy” is pronounced NAWR-muhl-see (/ˈnɔɹməlsi/ in IPA).
How do you use “normalcy” in a sentence?
Here is “normalcy” used in a sentence: “After the storm, the town slowly returned to normalcy.”
What is another word for “normalcy”?
Words with a similar meaning to “normalcy” include normalhood, normality, normaldom and normalness.
What is the opposite of “normalcy”?
The opposite of “normalcy” — its antonyms — are abnormalcy and abnormality.
What part of speech is “normalcy”?
“Normalcy” is a noun.
Where does the word “normalcy” come from?
The word “normalcy” dates back to around 1920. Formed from "normal" plus the suffix "-cy." Though originally used in mathematics, it became widely popular in the US after President Warren G. Harding used it in a famous 1920 speech about "a return to normalcy.".