heteronormative

adjective

het·​ero·​nor·​ma·​tive ˌhe-tə-rō-ˈnȯr-mə-tiv How to pronounce heteronormative (audio)
: of, relating to, or based on the attitude that heterosexuality is the only normal and natural expression of sexuality
heteronormativity
ˌhe-tə-rō-ˌnȯr-mə-ˈti-və-tē How to pronounce heteronormative (audio)
noun

Examples of heteronormative in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Because the world assumes that all people are heteronormative and cisgenger, kids can often be on the back foot when talking about their relationships and identity. — Taylor Grothe, Parents, 4 June 2026 For many years now, the heteronormative and gendered approach to fashion has been changing, with a more inclusive and fluid ideology emerging. — Kati Chitrakorn, CNN Money, 26 Jan. 2026 Mary is haunted by a threatening male presence, who becomes the embodiment of the heteronormative society working to control her. — Samantha Allen, Them., 7 Oct. 2025 According to the heteronormative version of bluegill courtship, mating season begins when males start building nests—basically, bowl-like depressions in the lake bed. — Elizabeth Kolbert, New Yorker, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for heteronormative

Word History

Etymology

hetero- + normative

Note: The word was popularized, if not introduced, by the American critic and scholar Michael Warner (born 1958) in "Introduction: Fear of a Queer Planet," Social Text, no. 29 (1991), pp. 3-15.

First Known Use

1991, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of heteronormative was in 1991

Rhymes for heteronormative

See All Rhymes for heteronormative

Browse Nearby Words

heteronomy
heteronormative
heteronuclear
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Cite this Entry

“Heteronormative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heteronormative. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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