\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.