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 broken3: having a specified temper —used in combination <short-tempered>4: conforming to adjustment by temperament —used of a musical interval, intonation, semitone, or scale