ˈtempərəmənt n. 1 a person's
distinct nature and character,
esp. as
determined by
physical constitution and permanently affecting
behaviour (a
nervous temperament;
the artistic temperament). 2 a
creative or
spirited personality (was full of temperament). 3 a an adjustment of intervals in
tuning a piano etc. so as to fit the scale
for use in
all keys. b (equal temperament) an adjustment in
which the 12 semitones are at
equal intervals. [ME f. L temperamentum (as TEMPER)]