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 Recruiting, retention, and team morale are downstream effects of the leader's biology, temperament, and standards. Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026 Here, the best of the bunch for tables of any temperament. Erin Bunch, Bon Appetit Magazine, 25 June 2026 But his tenure was also marked by a notoriously volatile temperament that ultimately led to his dismissal in September 2000. Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 19 June 2026 Ahn is, by temperament and biography, an institutionalist. Joshua Encinias, IndieWire, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for temperament
Recent Examples of Synonyms for temperament
Noun
  • The episode served as a wake-up call for Bernthal, who got sober, began therapy, took anger management classes, and resolved to channel his volcanic temper and restless energy into his acting work.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 16 July 2026
  • As notorious as Cotliar was for his accurate calls on election night, impressive memory, love for college basketball and the Los Angeles Times, he was also known around the newsroom for his occasional near-slapstick temper.
    Emily St. Martin, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026
Noun
  • Early hints that Will was an abusive husband appear to have a precedent in the snarling disposition of his father Edgar (Erroll Shand), whose kindness mostly is reserved for his dog.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 8 July 2026
  • Qualifications got candidates into the pool, but disposition got them on the team.
    Ed Brzychcy, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026
Noun
  • One other surprising benefit could be to shift people’s attitudes to climate change, according to recent research.
    Laura Paddison, CNN Money, 17 July 2026
  • As Odysseus wanders from place to place, discovering the foreign customs and attitudes of each one, the story explores the concept of home, asking what kind of civilization is appropriate for an authentic human being.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 17 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Temperament.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/temperament. Accessed 21 Jul. 2026.

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