adj.
Pronunciation: ' tem-p ə rd
Function: adjective
Date: 14th century
1 a : having the elements mixed in satisfying proportions : TEMPERATE b : qualified, lessened, or diluted by the mixture or influence of an additional ingredient : MODERATED <a pale gleam of tempered sunlight fell through the leaves ― W. H. Hudson † 1922>
2 : treated by tempering especially of glass : treated so as to impart increased strength and the property of shattering into pellets when broken
3 : having a specified temper ― used in combination <short- tempered >
4 : conforming to adjustment by temperament ― used of a musical interval, intonation, semitone, or scale