Definition of temperamentnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word temperament distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of temperament are character, disposition, personality, and temper. While all these words mean "the dominant quality or qualities distinguishing a person or group," temperament implies a pattern of innate characteristics associated with one's specific physical and nervous organization.

an artistic temperament

Where would character be a reasonable alternative to temperament?

While in some cases nearly identical to temperament, character applies to the aggregate of moral qualities by which a person is judged apart from intelligence, competence, or special talents.

strength of character

When could disposition be used to replace temperament?

While the synonyms disposition and temperament are close in meaning, disposition implies customary moods and attitude toward the life around one.

a cheerful disposition

When is it sensible to use personality instead of temperament?

The words personality and temperament are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, personality applies to an aggregate of qualities that distinguish one as a person.

a somber personality

When would temper be a good substitute for temperament?

The meanings of temper and temperament largely overlap; however, temper implies the qualities acquired through experience that determine how a person or group meets difficulties or handles situations.

a resilient temper

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of temperament Kelly struck me as having an ideal vice-presidential temperament. Mark Leibovich, The Atlantic, 20 July 2026 Species with different temperature preferences, growth rates, or temperaments may compete for resources or create stress for one another. Rachel Silva, Martha Stewart, 9 July 2026 There is no universally safe temperature for a walk, since risk depends on breed, age, health and temperament. Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 9 July 2026 Here, the best of the bunch for tables of any temperament. Erin Bunch, Bon Appetit Magazine, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for temperament
Recent Examples of Synonyms for temperament
Noun
  • The Sangamon County State's Attorney's office had also opposed Grayson's release, saying he was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer before the shooting and his temper could pose a risk to the public.
    Tesfaye Negussie, ABC News, 31 July 2026
  • The arachnid hormones in his body are surging, causing his pupils to turn black and his temper to explode.
    Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 30 July 2026
Noun
  • And at the same time, the state will submit its response, which could include a motion for summary disposition.
    Alex Brizee July 30, Idaho Statesman, 30 July 2026
  • About a decade ago, cremation surpassed traditional burial as the most popular method of disposition in the United States.
    John Semley, Harpers Magazine, 28 July 2026
Noun
  • The early Olympic movement reinforced those same attitudes by barring women from major track and field events altogether.
    Lindsey Darvin, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026
  • Agazero’s new take on the genre retains a similarly ambivalent attitude toward the dancefloor.
    Amanda Cavalcanti, Pitchfork, 31 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Temperament.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/temperament. Accessed 4 Aug. 2026.

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