temperance
TEM-per-uns
/ˈtempərəns/
Moderation or self-restraint in action, thought, or feeling; specifically, restraint in appetite or consumption.
Classical temperance is not total self-denial, but harmonious self-regulation and balance.
The story behind the word. Latin 'temperare' originally meant to mix liquids (like wine and water) in proper proportion so that neither element dominated. A 'temperate' person was someone whose desires were blended in perfect proportion, creating harmony rather than conflict.
Word relationships
- moderation: Moderation is avoiding extremes in general, whereas temperance explicitly highlights disciplined self-control over bodily appetites.
- restraint: Restraint is holding oneself back from an action, while temperance is the sustained habit of balanced self-government.
- intemperance: Intemperance means lack of moderation or excessive indulgence.
- excess: Excess means going beyond reasonable bounds or limits.
Commonly confused with
- temperature: Temperature measures heat; temperance is self-restraint and moderation.
Word family
- temperate (adjective): Showing moderation or self-restraint.
- temperately (adverb): With moderation.
Collocations
- practice temperance
- temperance movement
- cardinal temperance
- exercise temperance
Idioms & expressions
- middle path
- golden mean
Example sentences
- "Temperance is one of the four cardinal virtues governing physical desires." Classical philosophy overview
- "The temperance movement urged citizens to practice restraint for the betterment of society." Historical analysis of social movements
Memory hook
Think of TEMPERANCE as keeping your TEMPER and appetites at a balanced TEMPERATURE. Everything in due proportion.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'temperature' (thermal degree). In 19th-century contexts, it often referred strictly to abstinence from alcohol, but in philosophy, it is much broader.
Fun facts
- In medieval alchemy and medicine, temperance meant balancing the four bodily humors (blood, phlegm, yellow bile, black bile).
Related words
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