pro tempore

American  

[proh tem-puh-ree, proh tem-paw-re] / ˈproʊ ˈtɛm pəˌri, ˈproʊ ˈtɛm pɔˌrɛ /

Also pro tem

adverb

1. temporarily; for the time being.

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adjective

1. temporary (often used postpositively).

   She is serving as a judge pro tempore.

pro tempore British  

/ ˈprəʊ ˈtɛmpərɪ /

adverb

1. Often shortened to: pro tem.  for the time being

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pro tempore Cultural  

1. Temporarily: “While the president of the company is ill, the vice president will act as the leader pro tem.” From Latin, meaning “for the time being.”

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Etymology

Origin of pro tempore

< Latin

Example Sentences

The president pro tempore of the Senate, Chuck Grassley of Iowa, is 91, and third in line for succession to the presidency.

From Salon • Aug. 9, 2025

Sen. Karen Keiser, D-Des Moines, has served as Senate president pro tempore since 2018.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 25, 2023

Kim said her conference should empower North Carolina Rep. Patrick T. McHenry, who is serving as speaker pro tempore, to pass critical legislation, until a leader is elected.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 21, 2023

It landed him in the role of appointed speaker pro tempore on Oct.

From Washington Times • Oct. 18, 2023

The President pro tempore: The Chair will inform the senator from Missouri that a majority of the Senate has to decide whether the resolution shall be considered.

From History of Woman Suffrage, Volume III by Stanton, Elizabeth Cady