intemperance Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the quality of being intemperate
  2. noun consumption of alcoholic drinks
    intemperateness.
  3. noun excess in action and immoderate indulgence of bodily appetites, especially in passion or indulgence
    intemperateness; self-indulgence.
    • the intemperance of their language

WordNet

In*tem"per*ance noun
Etymology
F. intempérance, L. intemperantia. See In- not, and Temperance.
Definitions
  1. The act of becoming, or state of being, intemperate; excess in any kind of action or indulgence; any immoderate indulgence of the appetites or passions.
    God is in every creature; be cruel toward none, neither abuse any by intemperance. Jer. Taylor.
    Some, as thou sawest, by violent stroke shall die, By fire, flood, famine, by intemperance more In meats and drinks. Milton.
  2. Specifically: Habitual or excessive indulgence in alcoholic liquors.

Webster 1913