Intemperance is a nine-letter word that refers to the excessive or immoderate consumption of alcohol or other substances. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ɪnˈtɛmp(ə)rəns/. The "in" at the beginning is pronounced as /ɪn/, and the "t" is pronounced as /t/. The "em" is pronounced as /ɛm/, and the "per" is pronounced as /pər/. The final syllable "ance" is pronounced as /əns/. The spelling of this word may seem complicated, but its phonetic transcription can help one understand its pronunciation.
Intemperance is a noun that refers to excessive indulgence or extreme lack of self-control, typically in relation to the consumption of substances like alcohol or food. It is characterized by excessive or immoderate behavior that goes beyond what is considered socially acceptable or healthy.
In the context of alcohol, intemperance refers to the prolonged and excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages, leading to a state of drunkenness or intoxication. It involves exceeding reasonable limits and neglecting the potential negative consequences on physical health, mental well-being, and social relationships.
Intemperance can also be applied to excessive consumption of other substances, such as drugs or even food. In the case of food, intemperance would imply overeating, constantly giving in to cravings, and disregarding the importance of a balanced diet for overall health and well-being.
Moreover, intemperance may extend beyond the realm of substance abuse and relate to general behavior. It can encompass excessive behaviors like gambling, shopping, or any act of overindulgence that leads to negative consequences for oneself or others. It signifies an inability to exercise self-control and the dominance of immediate gratification over long-term well-being.
Overall, intemperance represents a lack of moderation, self-discipline, and restraint, leading to excessive indulgence in various aspects of life, often resulting in negative physical, mental, or social outcomes.
Lack of moderation, excess in the indulgence of any of the appetites, especially in eating and drinking.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Want of proper restraint; excess in action or indulgence; habitual over indulgence in the use of intoxicating liquors.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "intemperance" has Latin roots. It is derived from the Latin word "intemperantia", which combines the prefix "in-" (meaning not) with "temperantia" (meaning moderation or self-control). This Latin term was eventually borrowed into Old French as "intemperance" during the 14th century. From Old French, the word made its way into Middle English and has remained in usage since then.