First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
temperate
adjective tem·per·ate \ˈtem-p(ə-)rət\
: having temperatures that are not too hot or too cold
: emotionally calm and controlled
: avoiding behavior that goes beyond what is normal, healthy, or acceptable
Full Definition of TEMPERATE
1
: marked by moderation: as a : keeping or held within limits : not extreme or excessive : mild b : moderate in indulgence of appetite or desire c : moderate in the use of alcoholic beverages d : marked by an absence or avoidance of extravagance, violence, or extreme partisanship
2
a : having a moderate climate which especially lacks extremes in temperature b : found in or associated with a moderate climate <temperate insects>
3
: existing as a prophage in infected cells and rarely causing lysis <temperate bacteriophages>
— tem·per·ate·ly adverb
— tem·per·ate·ness noun
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Origin of TEMPERATE
Middle English temperat, from Latin temperatus, from past participle of temperare
Related to TEMPERATE
- Synonyms
- moderate
- Antonyms
- immoderate, intemperate
TEMPERATELY Defined for Kids
temperate
adjective tem·per·ate \ˈtem-pə-rət, -prət\
Definition of TEMPERATE for Kids
1
: keeping or held within limits : not extreme or excessive <temperate pride>
2
: not drinking much liquor
3
: showing self-control <Though angry, he used temperate language.>
4
: having a mild climate that is not too hot or too cold
Medical Dictionary
temperate
adjective tem·per·ate \ˈtem-p(ə-)rət\
Medical Definition of TEMPERATE
1
: marked by moderation; especially : moderate in the use of intoxicating liquors
2
: existing as a prophage in infected cells and rarely causing lysis <temperate bacteriophages>
—tem·per·ate·ly adverb
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