Intemperate

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Lacking moderation or self-restraint, especially in behavior, speech, or consumption of alcohol
2. Excessive or uncontrolled in habits, appetites, or emotional expression, showing a failure to exercise restraint
3. Characterized by extreme or immoderate conduct, particularly in indulging desires beyond reasonable limits

Etymology: "Intemperate" is a straightforward formation: the prefix "in-", meaning "not," attached to "temperate." That prefix comes down from the same ancient root that gives English "un-" and "not," reaching Latin as "in-" and then English through Middle English. The negative sense is the whole point of the word, so it describes a person or conduct that lacks the restraint that "temperate" implies. The base word carries the more interesting history. "Temperate" comes from Latin "temperatus," meaning properly mixed or tempered in due proportion, the same root as "temper" in the sense of tempering metal. Its original sense was about balance of elements rather than personal self-control, and only later did it come to describe moderation in appetite and behaviour. "Intemperate" therefore names the state of having lost that proper mixture, going beyond what is reasonable.

Synonyms: immoderate, excessive, unrestrained, overindulgent, profligate

Antonyms: temperate, moderate, restrained, controlled, sober