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 Teams have also reportedly questioned his temperament — something that became part of his flashy on-field persona over the past couple of seasons. Amber Harding Outkick, FOXNews.com, 26 Apr. 2026 Staff remembered him for his calm temperament, distinctive mane and loud roar — as well as a goofy streak, the zoo said. Kristi Miller, Twin Cities, 24 Apr. 2026 Organizers say the dogs will be fully vetted and temperament tested. Jeff Vorva, Chicago Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026 On the heels of the Swalwell controversy, candidates’ temperament will be under the microscope, and Porter’s history of issues may loom large. Douglas Schoen, Oc Register, 17 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for temperament
Recent Examples of Synonyms for temperament
Noun
  • The language of civil rights will always be most appealing to political minorities in search of procedural arguments to temper or frustrate the will of the majority.
    Kelefa Sanneh, New Yorker, 4 May 2026
  • People still were tired, tempers frayed.
    Mark Pazniokas, Hartford Courant, 2 May 2026
Noun
  • But Randle’s disposition spearheaded Minnesota’s approach.
    Marcus Thompson II, New York Times, 5 May 2026
  • Deputies will document all referrals and dispositions so the department can track how often services are offered, what resources are utilized and whether those efforts are producing measurable results.
    Sierra van der Brug, Daily News, 4 May 2026
Noun
  • Wintour then praised her co-chair Lauren Sánchez Bezos, citing her energy and positive attitude.
    Dalila Muata, NBC news, 5 May 2026
  • The reality is that, nowadays, a can-do attitude and unrelenting work ethic aren’t enough to live comfortably, much less to achieve the same American dream our parents did.
    Linh Tat, Oc Register, 4 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Temperament.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/temperament. Accessed 11 May. 2026.

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