temper

¹tem·per

verb \ˈtem-pər\

tem·peredtem·per·ing\-p(ə-)riŋ\

Definition of TEMPER

transitive verb

1

: to dilute, qualify, or soften by the addition or influence of something else : moderate <temper justice with mercy>

2

archaic a : to exercise control over : govern, restrain b : to cause to be well disposed : mollify <tempered and reconciled them both — Richard Steele>

3

: to bring to a suitable state by mixing in or adding a usually liquid ingredient: as a : to mix (clay) with water or a modifier (as grog) and knead to a uniform texture b : to mix oil with (colors) in making paint ready for use

4

a (1) : to soften (as hardened steel or cast iron) by reheating at a lower temperature (2) : to harden (as steel) by reheating and cooling in oil b : to anneal or toughen (glass) by a process of gradually heating and cooling

5

: to make stronger and more resilient through hardship : toughen <troops tempered in battle>

6

a : to put in tune with something : attune b : to adjust the pitch of (a note, chord, or instrument) to a temperament

— tem·per·able \-p(ə-)rə-bəl\ adjective

— tem·per·er \-pər-ər\ noun

Examples of TEMPER

1. The steel must be properly tempered.

Origin of TEMPER

Middle English, from Old English & Anglo-French; Old English temprian & Anglo-French temprer, from Latin temperare to moderate, mix, temper; probably akin to Latin tempor-, tempus time

First Known Use: before 12th century

Other Handicraft Terms

biscuit, darn, tambour, wrought