# temperate

/ˈtɛmpɝət/ (US) · /tˈɛmpəɹət/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/temperate
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. climate/weather

adjective · CEFR B2

describing a place where the weather is mild — it is never extremely hot or extremely cold.

For teachers: relating to a climate characterized by mild temperatures, lacking the extremes of the tropical or polar regions.

- The country has a temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters.
- Plants from temperate regions often require a period of winter dormancy to thrive during the subsequent growing season.

Usage: Usually precedes the noun 'climate' or 'zone'.

### 2. behavior/habits

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

showing self-control; not eating or drinking too much, and staying calm.

For teachers: showing moderation or self-restraint in actions, speech, or consumption of food and alcohol.

- He was known for his temperate habits and never drank more than one glass of wine.
- The senator's temperate response to the accusations helped de-escalate the political tension before the evening news cycle.

Teaching tip: In modern English, this sense is quite formal; 'moderate' or 'restrained' are more common in everyday speech.

## Examples

- The island has a temperate climate all year round.
- Plants from temperate regions often struggle to survive the intense humidity of a tropical rainforest.
- The philosopher argued that a temperate lifestyle, avoiding both excess and deficiency, was the key to achieving long-term mental clarity and physical health.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.