TEMPER Synonyms: 157 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'temper' distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of temper are character , disposition , personality , and temperament . While all these words mean "the dominant quality or qualities distinguishing a person or group," temper implies the qualities acquired through experience that determine how a person or group meets difficulties or handles situations. // a resilient temper

Q: When might 'character' be a better fit than 'temper'?

The meanings of character and temper largely overlap; however, character applies to the aggregate of moral qualities by which a person is judged apart from intelligence, competence, or special talents. // strength of character

Q: When could 'disposition' be used to replace 'temper'?

The words disposition and temper can be used in similar contexts, but disposition implies customary moods and attitude toward the life around one. // a cheerful disposition

Q: When is it sensible to use 'personality' instead of 'temper'?

While the synonyms personality and temper are close in meaning, personality applies to an aggregate of qualities that distinguish one as a person. // a somber personality

Q: In what contexts can 'temperament' take the place of 'temper'?

Although the words temperament and temper have much in common, temperament implies a pattern of innate characteristics associated with one's specific physical and nervous organization. // an artistic temperament

temper 1 of 2

noun

ˈtem-pər

Definition of temper next

as in aura

a special quality or impression associated with something there's a temper of tranquility about the retreat that visitors find very inviting

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

as in mood

a state of mind dominated by a particular emotion was in quite a bad temper after spilling his juice all over his new shirt

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in temperament

one's characteristic attitude or mood she has an even temper and a calm manner that sets everyone all at ease

Synonyms & Similar Words

temper

2 of 2

verb

as in to anneal

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to moderate

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word temper distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of temper are character, disposition, personality, and temperament. While all these words mean "the dominant quality or qualities distinguishing a person or group," temper implies the qualities acquired through experience that determine how a person or group meets difficulties or handles situations.

a resilient temper

When might character be a better fit than temper?

The meanings of character and temper largely overlap; however, 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 temper?

The words disposition and temper can be used in similar contexts, but disposition implies customary moods and attitude toward the life around one.

a cheerful disposition

When is it sensible to use personality instead of temper?

While the synonyms personality and temper are close in meaning, personality applies to an aggregate of qualities that distinguish one as a person.

a somber personality

In what contexts can temperament take the place of temper?

Although the words temperament and temper have much in common, temperament implies a pattern of innate characteristics associated with one's specific physical and nervous organization.

an artistic temperament

Examples 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 temper

Noun

Dre Skull and Kartel’s sessions produced Kingston Story, a 2010 album that was celebrated for its conscientiously cheerful temper—and served as a reminder that dancehall was not just an identifiable sound but a scene, held up by intersecting networks of enthusiasts. —

Naomi Zeichner, Rolling Stone, 26 Dec. 2024 Pearce, in a magnificent performance, plays him as a kind of citadel—towering yet human-scaled, his immaculate dress and coiffure barely mussed by the occasional burst of temper or spasm of ego. —

Justin Chang, The New Yorker, 20 Dec. 2024

Verb

It’s served with a healthy helping of thick yogurt on the side, a traditional way to temper the heat. —

Lenore T. Adkins, Bon Appétit, 14 Jan. 2025 Banks with a culture of curiosity tempered with execution are likely to be leaders. —

Michael Abbott, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for temper

Recent Examples of Synonyms for temper

Noun

Aura Nails Call in the good vibes, love, and positive energy this Valentine’s Day with aura nails.

Audrey Noble, Vogue, 10 Jan. 2025
But studying videos and simply growing up with Williams’ aura invading pop culture informed his performance.

Melissa Ruggieri, USA TODAY, 10 Jan. 2025