Temperance

Pronunciation

Alternative forms

• temperaunce

Origin

See etymology of "to temper".

Full definition of temperance

Noun

1. Habitual moderation in regard to the indulgence of the natural appetites and passions; restrained or moderate indulgence; moderation; as, temperance in eating and drinking; temperance in the indulgence of joy or mirth; specifically, moderation, and sometimes abstinence, in respect to using intoxicating liquors.
• 1877, Arthur Conan Doyle, On these occasions I have noticed such a dreamy, vacant expression in his eyes, that I might have suspected him of being addicted to the use of some narcotic, had not the temperance and cleanliness of his whole life forbidden such a notion.
2. Moderation of passion; patience; calmness; sedateness.
3. One of the seven heavenly virtues.
4. (obsolete) State with regard to heat or cold; temperature.

Coordinate terms

• (virtue) chastity, charity, diligence, patience, kindness, humility

Antonyms

• intemperance
• gluttony

Related terms

• temper
• temperament
• temperamental
• temperature

Derived terms