norm-free
|norm-free|
🇺🇸
/ˈnɔrm.friː/
🇬🇧
/ˈnɔːm.friː/
not bound by rules
Etymology
'norm-free' is a modern English compound formed from 'norm' + 'free'; 'norm' (from Latin 'norma' via Old French 'norme') meaning a rule or standard, and 'free' (from Old English 'frēo') meaning not subject to something.
'norm' entered English from Old French 'norme', itself from Latin 'norma' (originally a carpenter's square, then 'rule'); 'free' comes from Old English 'frēo' meaning 'not in bondage'. The compound 'norm-free' appears in contemporary English by combining these elements to express exemption from norms.
Individually, 'norm' historically meant a rule or standard and 'free' meant not bound; combined in modern usage they specifically convey 'not governed or constrained by norms', a usage that reflects contemporary discourse about social rules and practices.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the state or quality of being free from norms; freedom from normative rules or expectations (noun form derived from 'norm-free').
The norm-freeness of the subculture allowed members to experiment with new identities.
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Adjective 1
not governed by, constrained by, or conforming to social norms, standards, or established rules; free from normative expectations.
The researchers adopted a norm-free approach to study creative behavior outside traditional expectations.
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Adverb 1
in a manner that is not constrained by norms; without following normative rules (adverbial form of 'norm-free').
Actors in the experimental play moved norm-freely, ignoring typical stage conventions.
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Last updated: 2025/12/24 11:52