Synonyms of temperament

temperament

noun

ˈtem-p(ə-)rə-mənt 

as in temper

one's characteristic attitude or mood

looking for a dog with a sweet temperament

Synonyms & Similar Words

• temper
• disposition
• attitude
• nature
• personality
• outlook
• grain
• mind
• spirit
• heart
• opinion
• habit
• inclination
• perspective
• viewpoint
• mode
• tone
• emotion
• standpoint
• humor
• feeling
• frame
• angle
• belief
• judgement
• conviction
• sentiment
• judgment
• mind-set
• view
• sensitivity
• expression
• identity
• responsiveness
• strain
• slant
• vein
• sensibility
• persuasion
• cheer
• character
• individuality
• notion
• passion
• sensitiveness
• setup
• makeup
• mettle
• selfhood
• self-identity

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

Recent Examples of temperament

Joy speaks at length about growing up in a culturally sophisticated yet oppressive family and holding her artistic temperament in check, before achieving a belated liberation. —Richard Brody, New Yorker, 26 Sep. 2025

Over the last half-century, California has had seven governors — counting Jerry Brown twice — who varied widely in temperament, ideology and efficacy. —Dan Walters, Mercury News, 19 Sep. 2025

Dogs are supervised and able to play all day, providing both physical and mental stimulation, with a group of dogs that match their size and temperament for safe and fun socialization, the release said. —Erik S. Hanley, jsonline.com, 17 Sep. 2025

Redford and Pollack seemed to have similar temperaments and priorities. —Matt Zoller Seitz, Vulture, 17 Sep. 2025