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temper

Definition

  • noun: the tendency of someone to become angry
  • verb: to dilute, qualify, or soften by the addition or influence of something else
  • verb: to make (something) less severe or extreme
  • often + 'with' or 'by'
  • synonyms: moderate, calm, soften

Examples

  • He 'tempered' his criticism 'with' a few words of encouragement. = He 'tempered' his criticism 'by' adding a few words of encouragement.

  • He was upset but 'kept his temper'. [=remained calm; did not become angry, begin shouting, etc.]

  • Higher interest rates have 'tempered' [='lessened'] the demand for new houses.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) Piss off, you nonce. Santi. You given up that little nurse for Jordana? What did you say? You going to show your Mexican temper? - Come on, leave it. - Yeah? Yeah? Don't get me wrong. I'm just saying. Is it true? Did you fly all the way down here for this? (..)
    2007 Goal II: Living the Dream