par (pär)
n.

1. An amount or level considered to be average; a standard: performing up to par; did not yet feel up to par.
2. An equality of status, level, or value; equal footing: a local product on a par with the best foreign makes.
3. The established value of a monetary unit expressed in terms of a monetary unit of another country using the same metal standard.
4. The face value of a stock, bond, or other negotiable instrument: sold the bond at par.
5. Sports. The number of golf strokes considered necessary to complete a hole or course in expert play.

tr.v. Sports, parred, par·ring, pars.
To score par on (a hole or course) in golf.

adj.

1. Equal to the standard; normal: a solid, par performance.
2. Of or relating to monetary face value.

idiom:

par for the course

1. Usual; typical: Unfortunately, such short-sightedness is par for the course these days.

[From Latin pār, equal, that which is equal.]

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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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