Main Entry: tem·pered

Pronunciation: \ˈtem-pərd\

Function: adjective

Date: 14th century

1 a : having the elements mixed in satisfying proportions : temperate b : qualified, lessened, or diluted by the mixture or influence of an additional ingredient : moderated <a pale gleam of tempered sunlight fell through the leaves — W. H. Hudson †1922>
2 : treated by tempering; especially of glass : treated so as to impart increased strength and the property of shattering into pellets when broken
3 : having a specified temper —used in combination <short-tempered>
4 : conforming to adjustment by temperament —used of a musical interval, intonation, semitone, or scale