temper
1tem·per
transitive verb \ˈtem-pər\tem·peredtem·per·ing \-p(ə-)riŋ\
Definition of TEMPER
1
: to dilute, qualify, or soften by the addition or influence of something else : moderate <temper justice with mercy>
2
3
: to bring to a suitable state by mixing in or adding a usually liquid ingredient: as a : to mix (clay) with water or a modifier (as grog) and knead to a uniform texture b : to mix oil with (colors) in making paint ready for use
4
a (1) : to soften (as hardened steel or cast iron) by reheating at a lower temperature (2) : to harden (as steel) by reheating and cooling in oil b : to anneal or toughen (glass) by a process of gradually heating and cooling
5
: to make stronger and more resilient through hardship : toughen <troops tempered in battle>
6
a : to put in tune with something : attune b : to adjust the pitch of (a note, chord, or instrument) to a temperament
— tem·per·able \-p(ə-)rə-bəl\ adjective
— tem·per·er \-pər-ər\ noun
Examples of TEMPER
- The steel must be properly tempered.
Origin of TEMPER
Middle English, from Old English & Anglo-French; Old English temprian & Anglo-French temprer, from Latin temperare to moderate, mix, temper; probably akin to Latin tempor-, tempus time
First Known Use: before 12th century
2temper
nounDefinition of TEMPER
1
a archaic : a suitable proportion or balance of qualities : a middle state between extremes : mean, medium <virtue is…a just temper between propensities — T. B. Macaulay> b archaic : character, quality <the temper of the land you design to sow — John Mortimer> c : characteristic tone : trend <the temper of the times> d : high quality of mind or spirit : courage
2
a : the state of a substance with respect to certain desired qualities (as hardness, elasticity, or workability); especially : the degree of hardness or resiliency given steel by tempering b : the feel and relative solidity of leather
3
a : a characteristic cast of mind or state of feeling : disposition b : calmness of mind : composure c : state of feeling or frame of mind at a particular time usually dominated by a single strong emotion d : heat of mind or emotion : proneness to anger : passion <she has a real temper>
4
: a substance (as a metal) added to or mixed with something else (as another metal) to modify the properties of the latter
Examples of TEMPER
- She has a bad temper.
- That boy has quite a temper.
- He needs to learn to control his temper.
- She hit him in a fit of temper.
- He slammed the door and left in a temper.
- It's often difficult for parents not to lose their tempers.
- He is in a pleasant temper.
First Known Use of TEMPER
14th century
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