temp

¹

[ temp ]

noun

1. an office worker hired, usually through an agency on a per diem basis, for a short period of time; a temporary worker.

verb (used without object)

1. to work on a per diem basis or as a temporary employee.

temp.

²

abbreviation for

1. temperature.
2. temporary.
3. in the time of.

temp

¹

/ tɛmp /

noun

1. a person, esp a typist or other office worker, employed on a temporary basis

verb

1. intr to work as a temp

temp.

²

abbreviation for

1. temperate
2. temperature
3. temporary
4. tempore

Word History and Origins

Origin of temp¹

First recorded in 1930–35; by shortening

Origin of temp²

From the Latin word tempore

Word History and Origins

Origin of temp¹

(for sense 4) Latin: in the time of

Example Sentences

She added, “My heart goes out to the unhoused, as there is little to no relief when those temps rise.”

From Salon

Like a released champagne cork, laughter exploded and bubbled over, and the chemistry in the car changed from frigid temps to cozy and comfortable.

From Los Angeles Times

This morning, I walked outside to temps in the mid-70’s and a sweet northeasterly breeze.

From Salon

Valleys will see temperatures of up to 112 on Monday, with triple-digit temps also forecast in inland areas closer to the coast.

From Los Angeles Times

And there was no musical piece — we looked, trust me — that could temp in for that montage.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• aide
• apprentice
• associate
• attendant
• backup
• colleague
• companion
• deputy
• friend
• partner
• representative
• secretary