adjective
- below normal or average in quality, ability, or performance
- having intellectual abilities significantly below average
Usage: clinical; potentially offensive when used casually
Examples
- The test results showed subnormal performance in several areas.
- Subnormal temperatures were recorded throughout the winter.
- The patient exhibited subnormal cognitive function after the injury.
- His subnormal vision required corrective lenses.
- The crop yield was subnormal due to the drought.
- Medical professionals avoid using ‘subnormal’ when discussing intellectual disabilities.