temperance
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tem·per·ance

noun \ˈtem-p(ə-)rən(t)s, -pərn(t)s\

Definition of TEMPERANCE

1
: moderation in action, thought, or feeling : restraint
2
a : habitual moderation in the indulgence of the appetites or passions
b : moderation in or abstinence from the use of alcoholic beverages

Examples of TEMPERANCE

  1. The minister preached about temperance.
  2. <my father attributes his ripe old age to temperance in all things, especially eating and drinking>

Origin of TEMPERANCE

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin temperantia, from temperant-, temperans, present participle of temperare to moderate, be moderate
First Known Use: 14th century

tem·per·ance

noun \ˈtem-p(ə-)rən(t)s, -pərn(t)s\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of TEMPERANCE

: habitual moderation in the indulgence of the appetites or passions; specifically : moderation in or abstinence from the use of alcoholic beverages

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