temperance
/ˈtɛmpərəns/
noun
Origin
Latin
temperare — to mix correctly, regulate, moderate
Overview
Meaning Now
- Moderation or self-restraint in action, statement, or indulgence; avoidance of excess.
- Total abstinence from alcoholic beverages, especially as a social movement.
Literal older meaning
The quality of being tempered or balanced.
Language path
Latin → Old French → English
Earliest form
temperance
Earliest period
14th century
Journey
Temperance became a major social and political movement in the 19th and early 20th centuries, advocating for the reduction or complete prohibition of alcohol consumption, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Evolution
- Latin
temperantia
“moderation, sobriety”
- Old French
temperance
“moderation”
- Middle English
temperance
“moderation, self-control”
Connections
Word parts
temper
root
to moderate
ance
suffix
state or quality
Related across languages
French
tempérance
temperance
Spanish
templanza
temperance
Explore next
Related to temperance
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.