Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

tempera

noun
/ˈtɛmpərə/
Definition
Tempera is a medium for painting that consists of colored pigments mixed with a water-soluble binder, such as egg yolk, which allows the colors to dry quickly and become durable.
Examples
  • The artist chose to work with tempera for its vibrant colors.
  • Many ancient artworks were created using the tempera technique.
  • She mixed the pigments with egg yolk to prepare the tempera paint.
Meaning
Tempera refers to both the painting method and the paint itself, typically used in art that requires a fast-drying, opaque medium.
Synonyms
  • Distemper
  • Gouache
  • Acrylic (in some contexts)