late 14c., of persons, "modest, forbearing, self-restrained, not swayed by passion;" of climates or seasons, "not liable to excessive heat or cold," from Latin temperatus "restrained, regulated, limited, moderate, sober, calm, steady," from past participle of temperare "to moderate, regulate" (see temper (v.)). Related: Temperately; temperateness. Temperate zone is attested from 1550s.
the temperate zones
a temperate region
temperate plants
a temperate response to an insult
temperate in his eating and drinking
temperate in his habits
temperate in his response to criticism
temper
tempera
temperament
temperamental
temperance
temperate
temperature
tempered
tempest
tempestuous
Templar