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 Beyond the jokes, the video became a celebration of dachshund temperament. Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Mar. 2026 The Singapore Sling and the Million Dollar Cocktail are sisters who share the same DNA and many of the same qualities but possess quite different temperaments and have gone on to enjoy different lives. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Mar. 2026 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 See All Example Sentences for temperament
Recent Examples of Synonyms for temperament
Noun
  • The President is, after all, known for his volatile temper and for holding grudges.
    StyleCaster Editors, StyleCaster, 6 Apr. 2026
  • Hurley is obviously more well-known than Underwood after back-to-back titles at UConn in 2023 and 2024, and his temper tantrums with officials are legendary.
    Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 4 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Denver District Court Judge Andrew Luxen sentenced Roybal-Smith to 56 years in prison during the disposition hearing, which will run concurrently with his other prison sentence, court records show.
    Lauren Penington, Denver Post, 10 Apr. 2026
  • The disposition of that case was not immediately clear Wednesday.
    Rocco Parascandola, New York Daily News, 8 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • As Merlin learned how to use the pre-recorded buttons, audiences fell in love with the then-tiny pig’s big attitude.
    Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 5 Apr. 2026
  • The movement language expresses attitude, with its amalgam of hip-hop, jazz, ballet, Korean traditional dance and musical theater.
    Marcia Luttrell, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Temperament.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/temperament. Accessed 13 Apr. 2026.

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