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 Right from his beginnings with the Talking Heads, Byrne’s quizzical temperament has fueled a determination both to never resist change and to remain open to all kinds of external stimuli. Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 26 Mar. 2026 Still, Mullin’s nomination has faced opposition, such as from Paul, who cited concerns about his temperament. Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 22 Mar. 2026 My mom had a more poetic temperament. Amanda Peet, New Yorker, 21 Mar. 2026 Blame the southern European temperament! Mark Ellwood, Robb Report, 21 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for temperament
Recent Examples of Synonyms for temperament
Noun
  • Angelika Warmuth | Reuters Gold prices climbed on Wednesday as declining oil prices helped temper worries about persistent inflation, following reports that Washington is working on a proposal to end the Middle East conflict.
    Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 25 Mar. 2026
  • But Thune and Graham both attempted to temper expectations in discussing its possible scope on Tuesday.
    David Sivak, The Washington Examiner, 24 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Ronald’s successor at the center of the story is Anthony Norman, another young man with an open face and an inviting disposition.
    Inkoo Kang, New Yorker, 27 Mar. 2026
  • Before filing the Order to Show Cause, the Enforcement Division gives the subject the opportunity to resolve the matter through a disposition agreement.
    Rick Sobey, Boston Herald, 27 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • And yet, my attitude was 'This is special.
    Taijuan Moorman, USA Today, 31 Mar. 2026
  • Nyad is an extraordinary example, but researchers say a positive attitude is key.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 30 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Temperament.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/temperament. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.

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