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 notesIn plain EnglishSelf-control, especially around alcohol or other indulgences.
Common pairings
temperance movement
practise temperance
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Word forms
- Plural
- temperances
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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."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for temperance
See all rhymes for temperance →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.
