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Tempered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tempered

[ˈtɛmpərd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

general description

Tempered refers to something that has been moderated or controlled, often to make something stronger or more balanced. It can describe materials that have undergone a process to increase their durability or resilience.

Synonyms

controlled, hardened, moderated, refined.

Examples of usage

  • The tempered glass is much safer than regular glass.
  • He is known for his tempered responses during heated discussions.
  • The tempered steel is used in manufacturing high-quality tools.
Context #2 | Verb

metallurgy

To temper means to heat and then cool material, especially metals, in a controlled process to improve their hardness and strength. This process is crucial in refining the property of the metal for various applications.

Synonyms

condition, harden, treat.

Examples of usage

  • The blacksmith tempered the metal for added strength.
  • They tempered the iron to make it suitable for tools.
  • After forging, the metal must be tempered to ensure durability.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Tempering is a heat treatment process that changes the physical properties of materials, making them stronger and more resilient.
  • In metallurgy, this technique is essential for producing steel with a balance of hardness and ductility.
  • Other materials such as glass also undergo tempering to enhance their durability and resistance to shattering.

Literature

  • In literature, characters may be described as tempered, suggesting they've gained depth and resilience through experiences.
  • Classic heroes often face trials that temper their strength, akin to how metal is treated to improve its quality.
  • The metaphor of being tempered is common in poetry to illustrate personal growth and adaptation.

Psychology

  • Emotional tempering refers to the process of controlling reactions and emotional responses through experience or guidance.
  • Cognitive-behavioral techniques can help individuals temper negative thoughts, leading to healthier emotional outcomes.
  • The concept underscores the importance of resilience – the ability to emerge stronger from stressful situations.

Pop Culture

  • Films often feature characters who are tempered by tragedy, highlighting their evolution throughout the story.
  • The phrase 'tempered by fire' is used in popular music to describe how tough experiences shape an individual.
  • In the realm of gaming, characters with tempered skills often have richer backstories that emphasize their growth and adaptations.

Origin of 'tempered'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'temperare', meaning to mix or regulate.
  • In Middle English, it was used to describe the process of adjusting qualities or conditions.
  • Over time, it evolved to mean not just mixing but also strengthening items like metal.

The word 'tempered' originates from the Latin word 'temperare', which means 'to mix, blend, or moderate'. It was derived from 'temperamentum', which refers to a balancing or moderation process. The term has evolved through Old French as 'temprer' before entering the English language around the late Middle Ages. Initially, it was often used in the context of metallurgy, referring to the controlled heating and cooling processes applied to metals to increase their strength. Over time, 'tempered' has broadened to include various contexts where moderation or balanced qualities are emphasized, reflecting the interconnectedness of its historical and modern usages.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,317 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.