R ˈtempə(r)]ˌchu̇(ə)r, -p(ə)rə], ]chər sometimes ].ˌtyu̇(ə)r or ]ˌtu̇(ə)r or ˈtem(p)chər; - R ˈtempə(r)]ˌchu̇ə, -p(ə)rə], ]chə sometimes ].ˌtyu̇ə or ]ˌtu̇ə or ˈtem(p)chə noun
( -s )
Usage: often attributive
Etymology: Latin temperatura, from temperatus (past participle of temperare to mix, blend, regulate, restrain oneself, abstain) + -ura -ure — more at temper
1. archaic : a mixture or blending of elements : composition , constitution
beings of our make and temperature — John Bonnycastle
2. obsolete
a. : a proper middle course : a mean between extremes : compromise , moderation
b. : mildness of climate : temperateness
3. archaic
a. : complexion 1b
b. : temperament 2a
c. : temperament 2b
4. : temper 2a
5.
a. : degree of hotness or coldness measured on one of several arbitrary scales based on some observable phenomenon (as the expansion of mercury) : the degree of a material substance that is a linear function of the kinetic energy of the random motion of its molecules : the degree of a vacuum that depends upon the density of the radiant energy within it — compare absolute zero , heat
b. : the degree of heat that is natural to the body of a living being, that in invertebrates and cold-blooded vertebrates approximates that of the environment, and that in warm-blooded vertebrates fluctuates in a narrow range characteristic of the kind of animal and largely independent of the environment
man's normal oral temperature of about 98.6° F
c. : abnormally high body heat
running a temperature
: a feverish condition
had a temperature for three days
d. : relative state of emotional warmth : level of interest : intensity
aware of a change in the temperature of our friendship — Christopher Isherwood
the low temperature of competition — V.O.Key