Standard

Definition

The word "standard" denotes (1) a level of quality or attainment established by authority or general consent; (2) something used as a measure, model, or norm; (3) a flag or emblem representing allegiance; and (4) conforming to conventional or widely accepted form.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ˈstæn.dərd/
• Respelling: STAN-dərd

British English

• IPA: /ˈstæn.dəd/
• Respelling: STAN-dəd

Etymology

From Old French estandard “flag, rallying point,” from Frankish *standhard (from Proto-Germanic *standan “to stand” + *harduz “hard”). Entered English in the 12th century as a banner, later generalized to mean a norm or criterion.

Derivatives

• Standardize (verb)
• Standardization (noun)
• Standardized (adjective)
• Standardly (adverb)

Synonyms

• Criterion
• Norm
• Benchmark
• Model

Antonyms

• Deviation
• Exception
• Anomaly
• Nonstandard

Usage

"Standard" appears in contexts of quality assessment, guidelines, and emblems. Examples: "The engine meets the safety standard," "She set a new standard of excellence," and "The troops rallied to the standard."

Related Terms

• Specification: A detailed description of requirements.
• Guideline: A recommended practice or procedure.
• Protocol: A formal set of rules.
• Banner: A flag or symbol.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Widely accepted as a measure or norm: Refers to what is established by authority or general agreement.
  • Example: "All products must comply with standard safety regulations."
• Conforming to conventional or expected form: Indicates matching common specifications.
  • Example: "Use the standard paper size when printing."

Noun

• An accepted norm or criterion: A basis for comparison or judgment.
  • Example: "Her work sets the standard for quality."
• A flag or emblem: A banner used to signal allegiance or rally supporters.
  • Example: "The knights rallied to the standard of their lord."