What does intemperance mean?
Intemperance denotes a failure to exercise moderation, most commonly in relation to alcohol consumption. It is a formal noun with historical associations: writers, reformers, and religious campaigners used it when describing drinking that was excessive, habitual, or destructive. In its broader and now less common sense, the word can refer to the absence of restraint in appetite, pleasure, behaviour, or consumption generally. For example, an account of intemperance may describe a culture marked by uncontrolled indulgence, while the older phrase “alcoholic intemperance” specifically identifies problematic drinking. The word is more commonly found in historical texts, political argument, and formal discussion than in casual conversation. Its chief historical association is with temperance movements, which sought to curb alcohol abuse. Unlike neutral descriptions such as drinking heavily, intemperance carries a strongly evaluative meaning, implying that consumption has become excessive or has escaped rational control.
nounExcessive or uncontrolled consumption of alcohol, especially when it leads to disorderly behaviour. More broadly, it can mean a lack of moderation or restraint in appetite, conduct, or consumption.
- Excessive or uncontrolled consumption of alcohol.
- Lack of moderation or restraint in appetite, behaviour, or consumption.
"The reform movement campaigned against intemperance and called for temperance in all forms of consumption."
"Years of intemperance eventually damaged his health and family life."
"The essay condemns the intemperance of a society devoted to constant consumption and pleasure."
The plural is grammatically possible but rare in modern usage, which normally uses the uncountable singular.
"The novel portrays the intemperances of the court with unusual candour."
The word once covered far more than drink: any appetite or conduct that ran wild counted as intemperance.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does intemperance come from?
The word comes from the Latin intemperantia, meaning excess or lack of moderation. It was formed from intemperare, related to temperare, “to moderate” or “to mix in due proportion,” and the adjective intemperatus, “excessive” or “uncontrolled.” The word entered English in the Middle English period and was initially associated especially with excessive drinking, although its use for other forms of excess developed as well.
Related word forms
How intemperance is actually used
Today the term is chiefly associated with excessive drinking, but older usage often applied it to any lack of restraint. It has a formal, historical tone and is less common in everyday speech than words such as overindulgence.
Easily confused with intemperance
Intemperance is a noun meaning excessive consumption or lack of restraint, whereas intemperate is an adjective describing behaviour, a person, or an amount as excessive or uncontrolled.