temperate

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   not extreme in behavior

   The family is temperate in their habits.

2. 2
   adj

   Moderate; not excessive.

   temperate heat

3. 3
   adj

   Proceeding from temperance.

   The temperate sleeps, and spirits light as air.

4. 4
   adj

   Dependent on life in a temperate climate.

   temperate fishes

5. 5
   verb

   To render temperate; to moderate

   It inflames temperance, and temp'rates wrath.

6. 6
   adj

   not extreme

7. 7
   adj

   (of weather or climate) free from extremes

Etymology

The adjective is first attested in 1380, in Middle English, the verb in 1540; borrowed from Latin temperātus, perfect passive participle of temperō (“to moderate, forbear, combine properly”), see -ate (adjective-forming suffix) and -ate (verb-forming suffix). See temper. Displaced native Old English ġemetegod.