Temperance

TEM'PERANCE, in the A.V., does not mean moderation only in the use of wine or other drink, but self-control leading to moderation in every thing. It is to be regretted that this good word should be doubly perverted - first in the direction mentioned above, and second to mean total abstinence from drink. This perversion leads to inaccurate thinking. 1 Cor 9:25.

TEM'PERANCE, in the A.V., does not mean moderation only in the use of wine or other drink, but self-control leading to moderation in every thing. It is to be regretted that this good word should be doubly perverted - first in the direction mentioned above, and second to mean total abstinence from drink. This perversion leads to inaccurate thinking. 1 Cor 9:25.

Part of speech: noun (n.)

1. Habitual moderation in regard to the indulgence of the natural appetites and passions; restrained or moderate indulgence; moderation; as, temperance in eating and drinking; temperance in the indulgence of joy or mirth; specifically, moderation, and sometimes abstinence, in respect to using intoxicating liquors.

2. Moderation of passion; patience; calmness; sedateness. [R.] "A gentleman of all temperance." Shak. He calmed his wrath with goodly temperance. Spenser.

3. State with regard to heat or cold; temperature. [Obs.] "Tender and delicate temperance." Shak. Temperance society, an association formed for the purpose of diminishing or stopping the use of alcoholic liquors as a beverage.