temper: meaning and definitions

To modify by the addition of a moderating element; moderate: "temper its doctrinaire logic with a little practical wisdom” ( Robert H. Jackson). See Synonyms at moderate.

To bring to a desired consistency, texture, hardness, or other physical condition by or as if by blending, admixing, or kneading: temper clay; paints that had been tempered with oil.

To harden or strengthen (metal or glass) by application of heat or by heating and cooling.

To strengthen through experience or hardship; toughen: soldiers who had been tempered by combat.

To adjust finely; attune: a portfolio that is tempered to the investor's needs.

Music To adjust (the pitch of an instrument) to a temperament.

To be or become tempered.

A state of mind or emotions; disposition: an even temper. See Synonyms at mood1.

Calmness of mind or emotions; composure: lose one's temper.

A tendency to become easily angry or irritable: a quick temper.

An outburst of rage: a fit of temper.

A characteristic general quality; tone: heroes who exemplified the medieval temper; the politicized temper of the 1930s.

The condition of being tempered.

The degree of hardness and elasticity of a metal, chiefly steel, achieved by tempering.

A modifying substance or agent added to something else.

Archaic A middle course between extremes; a mean.