temporal

The word “temporal” means relating to time, as opposed to space or eternity. In plain terms, relating to time (as opposed to space or eternity) in everyday and academic use; in anatomy, relating to the temple area of the skull.

“Temporal” is pronounced TEHM-puh-ruhl (/ˈtɛm.pə.ɹəl/ in IPA).

Here is “temporal” used in a sentence: “The novel jumps around with a confusing temporal structure.”

“Temporal” is an adjective.

The word “temporal” comes from Latin. From Latin temporālis, "relating to time," from tempus, "time" — related to "temper" and "temperature.".

“Temporal” is an uncommon word in modern English.

“Temporal” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to time, as opposed to space or eternity.

Temporal relates to time, while spatial relates to space — so a temporal sequence describes the order of events in time, whereas a spatial arrangement describes how things are positioned in physical space. The two terms are often paired to distinguish "when" from "where."

Temporal refers to things bound by time, having a beginning and an end, while eternal describes something existing beyond time, without end. In religious or philosophical contexts, "temporal" is often contrasted with "eternal" to distinguish worldly, time-bound existence from timeless or spiritual existence.

"Temporal power" refers to worldly, secular authority governing everyday practical affairs, as distinct from spiritual or religious authority. This use of "temporal" contrasts civil, earthly matters with matters of faith.

The temporal region refers to the area on either side of the skull near the temples, beside the eyes. This anatomical sense of "temporal" is unrelated to the meanings involving time, though both trace back to a common Latin root.