standard deviation

NOUN

predictable difference

Synonyms

WEAK

SD deviation normal deviation predictable error probable error range of error standard error

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

On weekends with high box-office results—one standard deviation above normal—tipping rates dropped to 20.56%.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 9, 2026

Tesla’s average analyst price target is $408 with a 35% standard deviation, implying wider outcomes than other tech giants.

From Barron's • May 4, 2026

A better measure, Crill says, is the ratio of the 60/40 portfolio’s standard deviation to that of an all-stock portfolio.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 30, 2026

At estimated 2027 price-to-book of 0.95X, banking stock valuations appear undemanding, trading one standard deviation below its five-year mean price-to-book of 1.07X, he says.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 3, 2026

No other breed falls outside the standard deviation.

From "The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl" by Stacy McAnulty