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 That temperament served Hill well on the Forty Acres. David Eckert, Austin American Statesman, 23 Jan. 2026 Each new relationship introduces a new background, temperament, and story to understand. Kevin Kruse, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026 The answers reveal a patchwork of values – shaped by history, geography, and local temperament – that together form the backbone of Rhode Island business culture. Will Richmond, The Providence Journal, 20 Jan. 2026 Matt Huang, the cofounder of the $12 billion crypto investment firm Paradigm, is all too familiar with the temperament of young workers. Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 9 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for temperament
Recent Examples of Synonyms for temperament
Noun
  • Behind palace doors, there were plenty of temper tantrums, sharp exchanges, and the occasional explosive fight.
    Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Co-regulating your emotions alongside your toddler can help achieve a resolution to conflict without raising your voice or loosing your temper.
    Sara Rowe Mount, Parents, 26 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Despite some outsiders' ideas of the common Amish person's disposition, Bates dismisses any misconceptions about the way she was treated while living in the community.
    Zoey Lyttle, PEOPLE, 30 Jan. 2026
  • By coordinating the full lifecycle of nuclear energy—from fuel production to waste disposition—the department seeks to improve national energy security and enhance the country’s position in the global nuclear energy market.
    Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 29 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • In terms of public attitudes to these vehicles in Europe, the picture is murky.
    Laurie Winkless, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
  • For four decades, Megadeth have been high priests—not the highest, but close—in a church of metal where technical prowess, breakneck tempos, and sneering attitude are the holiest of virtues.
    Eli Enis, Pitchfork, 26 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Temperament.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/temperament. Accessed 3 Feb. 2026.

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