temporal
UK: ˈtɛmp(ə)rəl | US: ˈtɛmpərəl
adj. relating to time as opposed to eternity
adj. relating to worldly or secular matters
adj. (anatomy) of or situated in the temples of the head
Derived from Latin temporalis, from tempus (time). The root tempor preserves the original Latin spelling and meaning, while -al is a common suffix forming adjectives. The word initially described things bound by time (e.g., "temporal power" vs. "spiritual power"). Later, it expanded to anatomical use ("temporal bone") due to its proximity to the temples (from Latin tempora, plural of tempus, referencing the "thinness" of time or the head's vulnerable area).
The study focuses on temporal changes in climate patterns.
Medieval kings often clashed with the Church over temporal authority.
She experienced sharp pain in her temporal region after the injury.
Philosophers debate the nature of temporal existence.
The artifact provides a temporal link between the two civilizations.