temperance

[tem-per-uhns, tem-pruhns] / ˈtɛm pər əns, ˈtɛm prəns /

NOUN

self-restraint; abstinence

Synonyms

STRONG

abnegation abstemiousness asceticism astringency austerity conservatism constraint continence control discretion forbearance forgoing frugality measure moderateness moderation moderatism mortification prohibition prudence reasonableness restraint sacrifice self-control self-denial self-discipline soberness sobriety stoicism teetotalism

WEAK

eschewal golden mean happy medium refrainment self-deprivation uninebriation unintoxication

Antonyms

STRONG

agitation allowance carelessness indulgence permission rashness wildness

WEAK

excess intemperance

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Anna Marshall, author of The Little Book of Christmas and Hogmanay, links it to a reaction against the temperance movement in the early 1800s.

From BBC • Dec. 29, 2025

Some temperance is overdue in the AI space.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 17, 2025

They recognized actual social change as extending beyond the idea of temperance, which they saw as a necessary but insufficient condition for improving the U.S. social order during the mid-19th century.

From Salon • Nov. 10, 2024

Early Free Methodists were active in the temperance and abolitionist movements.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 22, 2024

Anthony continued with her temperance and abolition work, but her focus shifted to women’s rights.

From "Votes for Women!" by Winifred Conkling

Vocabulary lists containing temperance

The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Born a Crime

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!