moderates
|mod-er-ates|
🇺🇸
/ˈmɑːdəˌrɪts/
🇬🇧
/ˈmɒdə(r)əts/
(moderate)
average or mild
Etymology
'moderate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'moderatus' (past participle of 'moderari'), where 'moderari' meant 'to regulate, control' and is related to 'modus' meaning 'measure' or 'moderation'.
'moderate' passed into English via Old French/late Latin forms (Old French 'moderat') and Middle English (e.g. 'moderat'), eventually becoming the modern English word 'moderate'.
Initially it meant 'kept within measure; restrained', and over time it evolved to cover both the adjective sense 'avoiding extremes; temperate' and the verb senses 'to make less extreme' and 'to preside over a discussion'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'moderate': people who hold moderate (centrist) political or social views.
The moderates in the party opposed the proposed radical reforms.
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Verb 1
third-person singular present of 'moderate': to make something less intense, severe, or extreme; to temper or reduce.
She moderates her criticism when speaking to new employees.
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Verb 2
third-person singular present of 'moderate': to act as a moderator of a discussion, meeting, or debate (to preside over and guide the proceedings).
He moderates the monthly panel discussion at the library.
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Last updated: 2025/10/06 09:26