ˈtempə n. & v. --n. 1
habitual or
temporary disposition of
mind esp. as regards
composure (a
person of a
placid temper). 2 irritation or
anger (in a fit of temper). 3 a
tendency to
have fits of anger (have a temper). 4 composure or calmness (keep one's temper;
lose one's temper). 5
the condition of
metal as regards hardness
and elasticity. --v.tr. 1
bring (metal or clay) to a
proper hardness or
consistency. 2 (foll. by with)
moderate or
mitigate (temper
justice with mercy). 3
tune or
modulate (a piano etc.) so as to
distance intervals correctly. øin a
bad temper
angry,
peevish. in a
good temper in an
amiable mood.
out of temper angry, peevish.
show temper be
petulant. øøtemperable adj. temperative adj. tempered adj. temperedly adv. temperer n. [OE temprian (v.) f. L temperare
mingle: infl. by OF temprer, tremper]