Temperature

Definition

Temperature refers to the degree of heat or cold measured by a thermometer, representing the intensity of thermal energy in a substance or environment.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtɛmpərətʃər/ or /ˈtɛmprətʃər/
• Respelling: TEM-puh-ruh-chur or TEM-pruh-chur

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtɛmpərətʃə/ or /ˈtɛmprətʃə/
• Respelling: TEM-puh-ruh-chuh or TEM-pruh-chuh

Etymology

The word "temperature" originates from the Latin "temperatura," meaning "a proportionate mixture," derived from "temperare," meaning "to moderate or mix." The term entered Middle English via Old French, evolving to describe the measurement of heat and cold in the 17th century.

Derivatives

• Temperate (adjective)
• Thermometer (noun)
• Thermal (adjective)
• Temperaturize (verb, rare)
• Temperateness (noun)

Synonyms

• Heat
• Warmth
• Chill

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "temperature" is used to describe the measurement of heat or cold. For example, "The temperature dropped significantly overnight." It is also used metaphorically, such as in "The political temperature is rising."

Related Terms

• Thermal: Relating to heat.
• Thermometer: A device for measuring temperature.
• Fahrenheit: A temperature scale.
• Celsius: Another temperature scale.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The degree of heat or cold in a substance or environment: Refers to the physical measurement of thermal energy.
  • Example: "The temperature in the room was a comfortable 22 degrees Celsius."
• The body’s internal heat level: Refers to the measurement of physiological heat in living beings.
  • Example: "Her body temperature indicated a mild fever."
• A metaphorical measure of intensity or mood: Describes the emotional or social "heat" in a situation.
  • Example: "The debate’s temperature rose as the candidates exchanged arguments."