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 The film leans on the cafe’s constant churn of strangers coming and going to draw out each character’s voice, temperament and quirks at a brisk clip. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 19 Aug. 2026 Pleasants has the temperament and a sneaky-enough anchor to play on the interior, but the Niners can’t even rep him at guard right now. Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 17 Aug. 2026 Tyren Hornes may only be 18 years old, but UCF’s newest wide receiver has the temperament of a seasoned veteran. Matt Murschel, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 Aug. 2026 An individual Maine coon’s temperament depends on genetics, socialization, life experience and its home environment. Pat Mueller, USA Today, 14 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for temperament
Recent Examples of Synonyms for temperament
Noun
  • First, loosen your pressure valve and temper your expectations.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 4 Sep. 2026
  • And his fiery temper, igniting at every possible moment with his older and more accommodating bandmates, turns this snapshot of history into genuine tragedy.
    Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 2 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • The case was thrown out Wednesday after a judge ruled his prior felony conviction had been modified to a juvenile disposition under a landmark California criminal justice reform law.
    James Queally, Los Angeles Times, 9 Sep. 2026
  • Hayes entered Alford pleas and received a deferred disposition with two years of supervised probation.
    Matt Lavietes, NBC news, 3 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • The prospect of higher inflation is also weighing on Americans’ attitudes toward the economy.
    Elisabeth Buchwald, CNN Money, 11 Sep. 2026
  • Camille Miceli‘s positive attitude is a powerful calling card.
    Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 11 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Temperament.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/temperament. Accessed 15 Sep. 2026.

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