tempered

[tem-perd]

adjective

1. having a temper or disposition of a specified character (usually used in combination).

   a good-tempered child.

2. Music.,  tuned in accordance with some other temperament than just or pure temperament, especially tuned in equal temperament.

3. made less intense or violent, especially by the influence of something good or benign.

   justice tempered with mercy.

4. properly moistened or mixed, as clay.

5. Metallurgy.,  of or relating to steel or cast iron that has been tempered.

tempered

/ ˈtɛmpəd /

adjective

1. music

   1. (of a scale) having the frequency differences between notes adjusted in accordance with the system of equal temperament See temperament

   2. (of an interval) expanded or contracted from the state of being pure

2. (in combination) having a temper or temperament as specified

   ill-tempered

Other Word Forms

• nontempered adjective
• untempered adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of tempered¹

Middle English word dating back to 1325–75; temper, -ed ², -ed ³

Example Sentences

But by July 2024 he had tempered his views, telling the BBC that he believed it existed but only "on the edges".

From BBC

A ragged anger dominates Jones’ energy, but it’s tempered with loving determination.

From Salon

Mr Ash added that when the price of gold surges because of investor interest, it was usually tempered by a slowdown in buying from China and India - two of the biggest markets for gold jewellery.

From BBC

Traditionally, matcha is considered to contain antioxidants and have a more tempered caffeine effect than the "high" and "crash" of regular coffee but there is some debate over any proven health benefits.

From BBC

Their faces — curious, cautious and skeptical — mirrored a sentiment across the Armenian diaspora: hope tempered by doubt, pride shadowed by mistrust.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• balmy 
• benign 
• bland 
• breezy 
• calm 
• cool 
• delicate 
• mellow 
• moderate 
• peaceful 
• smooth 
• soft 
• sunny 
• tepid 
• warm 
• weak