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adj B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

temperate

TEHM-puh-ruht

Temperate (adj) means Mild, not extreme in temperature or climate. Example: “Britain has a temperate climate, without extreme heat or cold.”

adj
1
Mild, not extreme in temperature or climate.
"Britain has a temperate climate, without extreme heat or cold."
2
Moderate in behaviour, appetite, or emotion; self-controlled.
"He remained temperate even under intense provocation."

How to use temperate

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishMild and moderate, whether describing weather or a person's behaviour.

Common pairings
temperate climate temperate zone

Word forms

more temperate comparative, temperated past tense, temperates singular, most temperate superlative

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Test yourself on “temperate” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Britain has a _____ climate, without extreme heat or cold.

Etymology

From Latin temperātus, past participle of temperāre, "to moderate" — related to "temper" and "temperance."

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for temperate

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Frequently asked questions

What does “temperate” mean?

The word “temperate” means mild, not extreme in temperature or climate. In plain terms, mild and moderate, whether describing weather or a person's behaviour.

How do you pronounce “temperate”?

“Temperate” is pronounced TEHM-puh-ruht (/ˈtɛmpəɹət/ in IPA).

How do you use “temperate” in a sentence?

Here is “temperate” used in a sentence: “Britain has a temperate climate, without extreme heat or cold.”

What is another word for “temperate”?

Words with a similar meaning to “temperate” include abstemious, calm, collected, composed, continent and cool.

What is the opposite of “temperate”?

The opposite of “temperate” — its antonyms — are excitable, fanciful, passionate, tempestuous and volatile.

What part of speech is “temperate”?

“Temperate” is an adjective.

Where does the word “temperate” come from?

The word “temperate” comes from Latin. From Latin temperātus, past participle of temperāre, "to moderate" — related to "temper" and "temperance.".

Is “temperate” a common word?

“Temperate” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial