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noun Uncommon

temperance

TEHM-puh-ruhns

Temperance (noun) means Self-restraint, especially in eating, drinking, or other appetites. Example: “He practised temperance in all things, eating and drinking in moderation.”

noun
1
Self-restraint, especially in eating, drinking, or other appetites.
"He practised temperance in all things, eating and drinking in moderation."
2
Moderation in, or complete avoidance of, alcohol.
"The temperance movement pushed for laws banning the sale of alcohol."

How to use temperance

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSelf-control, especially around alcohol or other indulgences.

Common pairings
temperance movement practise temperance

Word forms

temperances plural

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He practised _____ in all things, eating and drinking in moderation.

Etymology

From Latin temperantia, "moderation, self-control," from temperare, "to moderate" — the same root as "temper."

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for temperance

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Frequently asked questions

What does “temperance” mean?

The word “temperance” means self-restraint, especially in eating, drinking, or other appetites. In plain terms, self-control, especially around alcohol or other indulgences.

How do you pronounce “temperance”?

“Temperance” is pronounced TEHM-puh-ruhns (/ˈtɛmpəɹəns/ in IPA).

How do you use “temperance” in a sentence?

Here is “temperance” used in a sentence: “He practised temperance in all things, eating and drinking in moderation.”

What is the opposite of “temperance”?

The opposite of “temperance” — its antonyms — are intemperance and gluttony.

What part of speech is “temperance”?

“Temperance” is a noun.

Where does the word “temperance” come from?

The word “temperance” comes from Latin. From Latin temperantia, "moderation, self-control," from temperare, "to moderate" — the same root as "temper.".

Is “temperance” a common word?

“Temperance” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “temperance” have?

“Temperance” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: self-restraint, especially in eating, drinking, or other appetites.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial