temperament

word

Definition

Temperament is a person's usual mood or way of reacting to things; it describes whether someone is generally calm, energetic, sensitive, or irritable.

Usage & Nuances

Mostly used in a slightly formal or descriptive context when talking about personality. Common collocations: 'fiery temperament', 'even temperament', 'artistic temperament'. Not used for brief moods, but for a person's usual way of being.

Example Sentences

Dogs of this breed usually have a calm temperament.

basic

She has a gentle temperament and rarely gets angry.

basic

His temperament makes him a good teacher.

basic

He has an artistic temperament—he's sensitive and creative.

natural

Their temperaments are totally different, so they argue a lot.

natural

Don't worry about her reaction—it’s just her temperament.

natural