Average: meaning, definitions and examples

General calculations or describing something typical. Often used when referring to the sum of values divided by the number of values (arithmetic mean).

• The average temperature in July was 75 degrees.
• Her average score in the tests was 85.

Statistical or mathematical contexts; synonym for average (arithmetic mean). May sound more technical.

• The mean income of the survey participants was $50,000.
• Find the mean of these numbers: 3, 5, 7, and 9.

Statistical contexts; the middle value in a list of numbers. Useful when discussing data sets to represent typical value without outliers.

• The median age in the town is 35 years.
• In this dataset, the median score is 72.

Describing what is typical or standard; can refer to social standards or mathematical norms. Often carries a connotation of what is expected or usual.

• It's the norm for students to take exams at the end of the semester.
• The norm of this vector is 5.

Used to describe something that is neither great nor bad, often statistically middle. Common in both everyday conversation and more formal contexts like business or academics.

• His grades were mostly average this semester
• The average temperature in July is 25°C

Used to denote something that is characteristic or expected in a particular situation, often implying that it’s what you would commonly see or experience.

• It was a typical summer day, hot and humid
• His reaction was typical for someone in his situation

This word is used to describe something that conforms to standard, expectations, or what is usual in a given context. It’s neutral and widely applicable.

• It's normal to feel nervous before a big exam
• The baby's weight is normal for its age

This word carries a slightly negative connotation and is often used to describe something that is disappointingly average or below expectations.

• The movie was mediocre; I expected it to be much better
• His performance in the test was mediocre, nothing special