n.

1. a basis for comparison; a reference point against which other things can be evaluated;
   criterion, measure, touchstone
   
   • the schools comply with federal standards
   • they set the measure for all subsequent work
2. the ideal in terms of which something can be judged;
   criterion
   
   • they live by the standards of their community
3. a board measure = 1980 board feet
4. the value behind the money in a monetary system;
   monetary standard
5. an upright pole or beam (especially one used as a support)
   
   • distance was marked by standards every mile
   • lamps supported on standards provided illumination
6. any distinctive flag

adj.

1. conforming to or constituting a standard of measurement or value; or of the usual or regularized or accepted kind
   
   • windows of standard width
   • standard sizes
   • the standard fixtures
   • standard brands
   • standard operating procedure
2. commonly used or supplied
   
   • standard procedure
   • standard car equipment
3. established or widely recognized as a model of authority or excellence
   
   • a standard reference work
4. conforming to the established language usage of educated native speakers; "standard English" (American); "received standard English is sometimes called the King's English" (British);
   received
5. regularly and widely used or sold;
   stock
   
   • a standard size
   • a stock item