a. [ L. moderatus, p. p. of moderate, moderati, to moderate, regulate, control, fr. modus measure. See Mode. ] Kept within due bounds; observing reasonable limits; not excessive, extreme, violent, or rigorous; limited; restrained; as:
A number of moderate members managed . . . to obtain a majority in a thin house. Swift. [ 1913 Webster ]
v. t.
By its astringent quality, it moderates the relaxing quality of warm water. Arbuthnot. [ 1913 Webster ]
To moderate stiff minds disposed to strive. Spenser. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. (Eccl. Hist.) One of a party in the Church of Scotland in the 18th century, and part of the 19th, professing moderation in matters of church government, in discipline, and in doctrine. [ 1913 Webster ]
v. i.
Dr. Barlow [ was ] engaged . . . to moderate for him in the divinity disputation. Bp. Barlow's Remains (1693). [ 1913 Webster ]
adj. having elements or qualities mixed in proper or suitable proportions; especially, made less severe. Contrasted with
adv. In a moderate manner or degree; to a moderate extent. [ 1913 Webster ]
Each nymph but moderately fair. Waller. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. The quality or state of being moderate; temperateness; moderation. [ 1913 Webster ]