1 the degree or intensity of heat of a body in relation to others, esp. as shown by a thermometer or perceived by touch etc.
2 Med. the degree of internal heat of the body.
3 colloq. a body temperature above the normal (have a temperature).
4 the degree of excitement in a discussion etc.
Phrases and idioms:
take a person's temperature ascertain a person's body temperature, esp. as a diagnostic aid. temperature-humidity index a quantity giving the measure of discomfort due to the combined effects of the temperature and humidity of the air.
Etymology: F tempeacuterature or L temperatura (as TEMPER)
Useful english dictionary. 2012.