Tempering

Tempering refers to the process of improving the hardness and resilience of a substance, especially metals or glass, by controlled heating and cooling. This often involves altering the crystalline structure of the material to remove internal stresses and enhance its desirable properties. Beyond materials science, tempering can extend to the act of moderating or softening a person's emotions, behavior, or actions, often to make them more manageable or acceptable in a given situation. It implies a deliberate exercise of restraint or control, leading to a more balanced or stable state.

Tempering meaning with examples

• The blacksmith used careful tempering to transform the raw steel into a strong and flexible sword blade. Repeated heating and quenching at precise temperatures were essential for the process, creating a durable weapon. This rigorous process made the blade able to resist breakage, unlike other materials which shatter when hit.
• The glassblower precisely tempered the fragile glass vase after shaping it, preventing it from shattering due to thermal shock during cooling. Slowly allowing it to return to room temperature made all the difference in the final product. The artisan worked for weeks to perfect the glass and achieve the desired shape.
• She had to temper her initial anger at the unfair accusation by taking several deep breaths. She knew responding impulsively would only make things worse, causing further conflict and disagreement. It took significant practice and dedication to control her behavior in this difficult situation.
• The coach spent weeks tempering the team's aggressive approach. He wanted to make them more strategic, not less passionate, teaching them to apply restraint when and where necessary to ultimately bring the team to victory. The team members, originally resistant, were soon fully onboard.