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 race left relatively normal Democrats like former Controller Betty Yee, former Speaker Toni Atkins, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan struggling to gain traction despite having seemingly better temperaments, resumes, and ideas. Matt Fleming, Oc Register, 27 May 2026 The head coach and both quarterbacks — Mendoza and Kirk Cousins, the veteran bridge — share the same low-key temperament as well. Mike Sando, New York Times, 27 May 2026 Remember that every child is different, so choose coping techniques that might work with their personality and temperament. Corinne Schuman, Parents, 22 May 2026 This could just be a temperament clash. Noel Murray, Vulture, 15 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for temperament
Recent Examples of Synonyms for temperament
Noun
  • Don’t cross Russell Crowe in his own arena Russell Crowe has been known to have a temper, and he has been known to show it.
    Robert Abitbol, USA Today, 30 May 2026
  • This morning, the emotional Moon opposes combative Mars, so tempers and needs can pull in opposite directions.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 28 May 2026
Noun
  • Their books demonstrate that preparing for the future requires understanding the past and developing a patient, attentive disposition toward the here and now.
    Anna Holmes, The Atlantic, 27 May 2026
  • Knauf developed this disposition throughout the tenure of his career, which began in product management.
    Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 18 May 2026
Noun
  • Although service is not quite polished, the happy-go-lucky Dutch-Caribbean staff are refreshingly devoid of attitude.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026
  • The show has always affected a devil-may-care attitude, but in previous seasons, less-wearying — not to say light or uplifting — moments came up as a result of the chemistry between the young ensemble.
    Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 1 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Temperament.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/temperament. Accessed 8 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on temperament

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster