Temper

Temper

Temperare (to mix correctly) is the Latin origin of words like "temperature" and "tempering"; it and "tempo" come, in turn, from tempus (time or season). Thus, the word "temper" can refer (at least informally) to any time- and temperature-sensitive process (as for chocolate tempering or tempered glass), a material's thermo-mechanical history, or even its composition.

Read more about Temper.

Famous quotes containing the word temper:

    “I shall endeavour to enliven Morality with Wit, and to temper Wit with Morality, that my Readers may, if possible, both Ways find their Account in the Speculation of the Day.”
    —Joseph Addison (1672–1719)

    “Photography suits the temper of this age—of active bodies and minds. It is a perfect medium for one whose mind is teeming with ideas, imagery, for a prolific worker who would be slowed down by painting or sculpting, for one who sees quickly and acts decisively, accurately.”
    —Edward Weston (1886–1958)

    “The wine heats temper and complexion:
    Oath-enforced assertions fly
    On rheumy fevers, resurrection,
    Regicide and rabbit pie.”
    —Philip Larkin (1922–1986)