1. having a particular mood or disposition
Usage: often used in compounds like ‘good-tempered’ or ‘bad-tempered’
2. made stronger or more resilient through a heating and cooling process
Usage: technical, especially regarding metals and glass
3. moderated or made less extreme

Examples

• She is an even-tempered person who rarely gets angry.
• The hot-tempered coach yelled at the players during practice.
• Tempered glass is much safer than regular glass when it breaks.
• The steel was tempered to make it stronger and more durable.
• His criticism was tempered with kindness and understanding.
• The judge’s decision was tempered by mercy.
• Good-tempered children are easier to teach.