Definition

Noun: 1. Lack of moderation or restraint, especially in behavior, speech, or indulgence of appetites: The quality or state of being excessive, uncontrolled, or not temperate. 2. (Archaic/Formal) Excessive consumption of alcoholic drinks: The condition of being intemperate in drinking; habitual overindulgence in alcohol.

Usage and Examples

• The intemperateness of his criticism shocked the audience, as it was far harsher than the situation warranted.
• Historical texts often warn against the intemperateness of a ruler, which can lead to poor decisions and the downfall of a kingdom.
• The novel's villain is defined by his intemperateness in all things—from greed to anger.
• (Archaic usage) The doctor attributed his failing health to a life of intemperateness.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• Formality: This is a formal, literary, or academic word. In everyday speech, words like "excess," "lack of restraint," or "overindulgence" are more common.
• Scope: While it can refer to any lack of moderation, it is most powerfully applied to unrestrained emotions (like anger or passion), speech, and bodily indulgences (especially regarding food and drink).
• "Intemperateness" vs. "Intemperance": These nouns are essentially synonymous and interchangeable. "Intemperance" is slightly more common, but both convey the same core meaning of a lack of temperance or moderation.

Variants and Related Words

• Intemperate (adjective): Showing a lack of moderation or control.
  • Example: He was known for his intemperate remarks during meetings.
• Temperance (noun): The opposite quality; moderation or self-restraint, especially in drinking alcohol.
• Immoderation (noun): A close synonym, meaning a lack of moderation.
• Excess (noun): A more general synonym for the state of exceeding normal limits.

Synonyms

Immoderation, excess, overindulgence, unrestraint, extravagance, profligacy.

Antonyms

Temperance, moderation, restraint, self-control, abstinence (specifically regarding alcohol).

Noun

1. excess in action and immoderate indulgence of bodily appetites, especially in passion or indulgence
   • the intemperance of their language
2. consumption of alcoholic drinks