Search Dictionary
Definition of temperance

temperance

/ˈtɛm.pər.əns/
tem · per · ance
Adverb:temperately
•
Adjective:temperate
JUMP TO:

temperance Lexical Profile

temperance Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Habitual moderation, self-restraint, or self-control in action, thought, or appetite.

Example

"Classical philosophers regarded temperance as one of the four cardinal virtues essential to a balanced life."

2

Moderation in or complete abstinence from the consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Example

"Nine-teenth-century reformers organized public lectures and societies to promote temperance across the country."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for temperance
Antonyms
View all antonyms for temperance

• Rhymes for temperance

• Nearby Words

temperament
temperamental
temperamentally
temperance
temperate
temperately
temperature

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed into Middle English via Anglo-French from Latin 'temperantia' (moderation, self-control), derived from the verb 'temperare' meaning 'to mix in due proportion' or 'to restrain oneself'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Temperance. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/temperance
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.