Definition of temperamentnext

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 On the heels of the Swalwell controversy, candidates’ temperament will be under the microscope, and Porter’s history of issues may loom large. Douglas Schoen, Oc Register, 17 Apr. 2026 The former three-star recruit has the production, movement skills and temperament to hear his name early. Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 Apr. 2026 Setting the film in the Midwest helped tune it to Odenkirk’s particular temperament. Los Angeles Times, 15 Apr. 2026 But the two sides were simply too far apart, not just in substance, but in style and temperament. Nic Robertson, CNN Money, 12 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for temperament
Recent Examples of Synonyms for temperament
Noun
  • So sensitive has this phase of behind-the-scenes mediation become that no one close to knowledge of it seems willing to risk whatever calculus is in play to calm tempers and restore confidence.
    Nic Robertson, CNN Money, 23 Apr. 2026
  • Yes, there were a few decent jabs here and there about Tom Steyer’s money, Katie Porter’s temper, Matt Mahan’s tech ties and Chad Bianco’s far-right world view.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 23 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Burke has rare size at nearly 6-foot-9, and a nasty disposition to match.
    Luca Evans, Denver Post, 24 Apr. 2026
  • The survey presented over 1,500 American adults in a nationally representative sample with the definitions of six legal methods of disposition in a random order.
    Tanya D. Marsh, The Conversation, 24 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Even so, nuclear is the closest point of convergence between the two parties — a rare area where attitudes are narrowing rather than widening.
    Tiisetso Motsoeneng, semafor.com, 27 Apr. 2026
  • But the team attitude appears to be in a healthy place.
    Josh Yohe, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Temperament.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/temperament. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

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