1. a viral disease affecting dogs and other animals, causing fever and respiratory symptoms
Usage: veterinary
2. a type of paint made with pigments mixed in water and a binding agent
Usage: art
3. a disturbed or unbalanced state of mind or body
Usage: archaic

1. to disturb the normal functioning of; to upset
Usage: archaic

Examples

• The puppy was vaccinated against distemper at eight weeks old.
• Many dogs died from distemper before vaccines became available.
• The artist preferred working with distemper rather than oil paints.
• Medieval manuscripts were often illustrated using distemper.
• The king’s distemper affected his ability to rule wisely.
• Political upheaval can distemper an entire nation.
• The bad news seemed to distemper his usually cheerful mood.