Definition

A type of illness or disease, often used to refer to a specific viral infection in animals, particularly dogs and cats, or a method of painting with pigments mixed with a binder.

Example

The veterinarian diagnosed the puppy with distemper after observing its symptoms.

Conversation

I heard that the shelter is treating a dog with distemper.

Oh no, that's really sad. Is it serious?

Yeah, it can be pretty dangerous if not treated quickly.

I hope they can find a way to help him recover.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To disturb or upset the normal state of something; to mix colors with a binding medium for painting.

Example

The artist decided to distemper the canvas with bright colors.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I finally decided to distemper that old painting I found in the attic.

Oh really? I didn't know you were into art restoration.

Yeah, I thought it would be a fun project to bring it back to life.

Root Explanation

Distemper → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "temperare" (meaning to mix or moderate). The word originally referred to a state of being out of balance or mixed improperly, often used in the context of illness or disorder.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'apart' ('dis-') from a proper 'mix' or balance ('temperare') — that's why distemper refers to a state of disorder or illness.

Visually Confused Words