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To modify by the addition of a moderating element; moderate: "temper its doctrinaire logic with a little practical wisdom” ( Robert H. Jackson). See Synonyms at moderate.
(verb-transitive)
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To bring to a desired consistency, texture, hardness, or other physical condition by or as if by blending, admixing, or kneading: temper clay; paints that had been tempered with oil.
(verb-transitive)
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To harden or strengthen (metal or glass) by application of heat or by heating and cooling.
(verb-transitive)
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To strengthen through experience or hardship; toughen: soldiers who had been tempered by combat.
(verb-transitive)
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To adjust finely; attune: a portfolio that is tempered to the investor's needs.
(verb-transitive)
American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.