noun
temperance
TEHM-puh-ruhns
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 notesIn plain EnglishSelf-control, especially around alcohol or other indulgences.
Common pairings
temperance movement
practise temperance
Word Forms
temperances plural
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Etymology
From Latin temperantia, "moderation, self-control," from temperare, "to moderate" — the same root as "temper."