Temperance \Tem"per*ance\, n. [L. temperantia: cf. F. temp['e]rance. See Temper, v. t.]

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.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)