2. To have or get a proper or desired state or quality; to grow soft and pliable. I have him already tempering between my finger and my thumb, and shortly will I seal with him. Shak.
TEMPERA
Tem"pe*ra, n. Etym: [It.] (Paint.)
Defn: A mode or process of painting; distemper.
Note: The term is applied especially to early Italian painting, common vehicles of which were yolk of egg, yolk and white of egg mixed together, the white juice of the fig tree, and the like.
TEMPERABLE
Tem"per*a*ble, a.
Defn: Capable of being tempered.
The fusible, hard, and temperable texture of metals. Emerson.
TEMPERAMENT
Tem"per*a*ment, n. Etym: [L. temperamentum a mixing in due
proportion, proper measure, temperament: cf. F. tempérament. See
Temper, v. t.]
1. Internal constitution; state with respect to the relative proportion of different qualities, or constituent parts. The common law . . . has reduced the kingdom to its just state and temperament. Sir M. Hale.
2. Due mixture of qualities; a condition brought about by mutual compromises or concessions. [Obs.] However, I forejudge not any probable expedient, any temperament that can be found in things of this nature, so disputable on their side. Milton.
3. The act of tempering or modifying; adjustment, as of clashing rules, interests, passions, or the like; also, the means by which such adjustment is effected. Wholesome temperaments of the rashness of popular assemblies. Sir J. Mackintosh.