Emily Dickinson Lexicon

TEM'PER-A-TURE, n. [Fr., from L. temperatura.]

1. In physics, the state of a body with regard to heat or cold, as indicated by the thermometer; or the degree of free caloric which a body possesses, when compared with other bodies. When a body applied to another, expands that body, we say it is of a higher temperature; that is, it possesses more free caloric. When it contracts another body, it is said to be of a lower temperature. Thus we speak of the temperature of air, of water, of a climate, &c.; two countries of the same temperature.
2. Constitution; state; degree of any quality. Memory depends upon the consistence and temperature of the brain. Watts.
3. Moderation; freedom from immoderate passions. In that proud port, which her so goodly graceth, / Most goodly temperature you may descry. Spenser. [Not in use.]