moderation
UK: ˌmɒd.ərˈeɪ.ʃən | US: ˌmɑː.dəˈreɪ.ʃən
n. the avoidance of excess or extremes; self-restraint
n. the process of reducing or controlling something to a reasonable level
n. (archaic) the act of moderating or presiding over a discussion
The word traces back to Latin moderatio, meaning "control or restraint." The root modus ("measure") reflects the idea of keeping things within limits, a concept central to moderation. Over time, it evolved into Old French moderacion before entering Middle English as "moderacioun," retaining its core meaning of balance and temperance.
Drinking alcohol in moderation can have health benefits.
The teacher showed great moderation in handling the heated debate.
The government urged moderation in energy consumption during the crisis.
His speech was a model of moderation and diplomacy.
The committee called for moderation in political rhetoric.