ˈtemp(ə)rən(t)s, -pərn- noun
( -s )
Usage: often attributive
Etymology: Middle English temperaunce, from Latin temperantia, from temperant-, temperans (present participle of temperare to mix, blend, regulate, restrain oneself, abstain) + -ia -y — more at temper
1.
a. : moderation in action, thought, or feeling : restraint
the cardinal virtues of prudence, justice, temperance , fortitude
public opinion … its temperance or caprice — A.E.Stevenson †1965
compositions marked by temperance , serious reflection, and and expert writing — New Yorker
b. : habitual moderation in the indulgence of the appetites or passions : self-control
preaches temperance in the enjoyment of the pleasures of bed and table
his own … perfect temperance had in it a fascinating power — Walter Pater
specifically : moderation in or abstinence from the use of intoxicating drink : sobriety
temperance in those days was generally understood to mean total abstinence — John Lardner
2.
a. obsolete : the proper mixture or proportion of elements or qualities ; especially : the combination producing the desired state of a substance : consistency
boiled until they come unto a soft temperance — Edward Topsell
b. : mildness of weather or climate : temperateness
this island … must needs be of subtle, tender and delicate temperance — Shakespeare