temperate

Definition

Moderate; not excessive.

Etymology

The adjective is first attested in 1380, in Middle English, the verb in 1540; borrowed from Latin temperātus, perfect passive participle of temperō (“to moderate, forbear, combine properly”), see -ate (adjective-forming suffix) and -ate (verb-forming suffix). See temper. Displaced native Old English ġemetegod.

Example Sentences

• "temperate heat"
• "He has a temperate demeanour"
• "She is not hot, but temperate as the morn."

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