temperament

noun

ˈtem-p(ə-)rə-mənt How to pronounce temperament (audio)
Definition of temperamentnext
as in temper
one's characteristic attitude or mood looking for a dog with a sweet temperament

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word temperament distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of temperament are character, disposition, personality, and temper. While all these words mean "the dominant quality or qualities distinguishing a person or group," temperament implies a pattern of innate characteristics associated with one's specific physical and nervous organization.

an artistic temperament

Where would character be a reasonable alternative to temperament?

While in some cases nearly identical to temperament, character applies to the aggregate of moral qualities by which a person is judged apart from intelligence, competence, or special talents.

strength of character

When could disposition be used to replace temperament?

While the synonyms disposition and temperament are close in meaning, disposition implies customary moods and attitude toward the life around one.

a cheerful disposition

When is it sensible to use personality instead of temperament?

The words personality and temperament are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, personality applies to an aggregate of qualities that distinguish one as a person.

a somber personality

When would temper be a good substitute for temperament?

The meanings of temper and temperament largely overlap; however, temper implies the qualities acquired through experience that determine how a person or group meets difficulties or handles situations.

a resilient temper

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of temperament Contrary to what many people believe, pit bulls don't naturally have a bad temperament, are not inherently vicious, and are not more dangerous than other dogs. —Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 12 Mar. 2025 Brutus, a 6-month-old beauty of a pup with distinguishing features like two different colored eyes, a black mask and white and black body, is struggling with his temperament around people and other dogs, the Central PA Humane Society in Altoona said in a March 4 Facebook post. —Tj MacIas, Miami Herald, 5 Mar. 2025 The sleek silhouette of the shoe echoes the overall temperament of the season–quiet strength, sensuality, and effortless sophistication. —Bianca Salonga, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025 The film plays up his Captain as its own distinct hero, a Captain America with no super serum but better gear, a different temperament and a different style of fighting. —Maya Phillips, New York Times, 20 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for temperament
Recent Examples of Synonyms for temperament
  1. temper
  2. disposition
  3. attitude
Noun
  • As seen on the broadcast and in videos uploaded to X, Curry, 37, known for his cool temper on the court, was seen intensely exchanging words with Rockets head coach, Ime Udoka.
    — Natasha Dye, People.com, 7 Apr. 2025
  • Zahra said Mary slowly opened up about her troubles with Nathan, his paranoia, his temper.
    — Grethel Aguila, Miami Herald, 6 Apr. 2025
Definition of temper
Noun
  • Helping students develop tools and dispositions for critically evaluating media is more important than ever.
    — David Nurenberg, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025
  • The agency finally approved the company’s marketing of tests to determine genetic dispositions to 10 health conditions, including Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and certain blood clotting disorders, in 2017.
    — Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 26 Mar. 2025
Definition of disposition
Noun
  • Like a lot of that stuff increases your overall perspective on life and your attitude and stuff.
    — Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Apr. 2025
  • Use this insider knowledge to your advantage.) Come to the table with the attitude of creating a win-win scenario for yourself and the seller.
    — Ryan Serhant, Forbes.com, 7 Apr. 2025
Definition of attitude

Browse Nearby Words

tempera
temperament
temperamental
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Temperament.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/temperament. Accessed 14 Apr. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on temperament

Nglish: Translation of temperament for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about temperament

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