Norma

Norma is a term with multiple uses across languages and disciplines. In several Romance languages, norma means rule, standard, or pattern. In Latin, norma originally referred to a carpenter's square and came to signify a rule or guideline more generally. The English word norm is cognate, but norma itself is used in specialized contexts to denote a standard or norm.

As a feminine given name, Norma has been common in Italy, Spain, and the English-speaking world. Notable bearers include Norma Shearer, Canadian-American actress of the early 20th century, and Norma Jeane Mortenson, the birth name of Marilyn Monroe.

Norma in culture: The opera Norma by Vincenzo Bellini, first performed in 1831, is one of the best-known works in the bel canto repertoire. Set in Gaul under Roman rule, the title character is a priestess. The aria Casta Diva is especially famous.

Astronomy and geography: Norma is a southern constellation named after a carpenter's square. It is recognized by the International Astronomical Union. Norma is also a comune in the Lazio region of central Italy.

Usage in language and standards: In many Romance languages, norma is used for 'standard' or 'norm', and is used in phrases like normative rules or ISO standards. In mathematics and science, norma denotes a norm in some languages, analogous to 'norm' in English.