Definitions of temper:

• noun:   a disposition to exhibit uncontrolled anger

  Example: "His temper was well known to all his employees"

• noun:   the elasticity and hardness of a metal object; its ability to absorb considerable energy before cracking
• noun:   a characteristic (habitual or relatively temporary) state of feeling

  Example: "Whether he praised or cursed me depended on his temper at the time"

• noun:   a sudden outburst of anger

  Example: "His temper sparked like damp firewood"

• verb:   make more temperate, acceptable, or suitable by adding something else; moderate

  Example: "She tempered her criticism"

• verb:   adjust the pitch (of pianos)
• verb:   harden by reheating and cooling in oil

  Example: "Temper steel"

• verb:   toughen (steel or glass) by a process of gradually heating and cooling

  Example: "Temper glass"

• verb:   restrain or temper