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 During that time, Harry Guggenheim managed Wright’s ego, mercurial temperament, and expensive imagination with great patience. — Wendy S. Walters, Architectural Digest, 12 Oct. 2026 Charlotte has already garnered praise for acting every part the princess during royal outings—often helping manage the temperaments of her brothers and setting a regal example. — Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 11 Oct. 2026 Asked about the next five years by the panel’s moderator, Sourcing Journal deputy editor Kate Nishimura, the panel split on temperament more than substance. — Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2026 Resnikoff fully inhabits the role of Jaku, giving him a distinctive and consistent voice, posture and temperament. — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 2 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for temperament
Recent Examples of Synonyms for temperament
Noun
  • His love of his family is palpable, but his alcoholism, violent temper, philandering and anger are just as potent.
    — Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 4 Nov. 2026
  • The younger Cuomo brother has a long history of losing his temper.
    — Bobby Burack OutKick, FOXNews.com, 3 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • The Democrat’s disposition as a love-thy-trans-neighbor seminarian is a cover for something far more sinister, the argument goes.
    — Aidan McLaughlin, Vanity Fair, 30 Oct. 2026
  • How much of Rachael’s unsettled dignity comes from Young, the actress, her remote disposition, and the intensity in her eyes?
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 30 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • All of it is designed to feel like your own personal New England retreat, without the total do-it-yourself attitude of an Airbnb or unnecessary hand-holding of a hotel.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Nov. 2026
  • Keeho lands somewhere hopeful, with his mindset shaping the attitude the group carries into BLOW UP, in part thanks to seeing Charli xcx’s Music, Fashion, Film Tour at Los Angeles’ Kia Forum that week.
    — Jeff Benjamin, Billboard, 6 Nov. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Temperament.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/temperament. Accessed 10 Nov. 2026.

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