English · Word Candidate

temp

/tɛmp/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: temps · temping · temped

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To measure or check the temperature of something, especially food or equipment in a commercial kitchen.

Verb

Examples

The produce walk in is temping at between 42-46° and I let management know but nobody seemed too pressed about it. Days later it’s still the same problem

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Synonym of temporary (“short-term employee”).

NounRegister: informal

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

Synonym of temporary (“short-term variable”).

NounRegister: informal

Examples

That is, r-values include numeric constants, nonaddressable local variables (temps) […]

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To work as a temporary employee.

VerbRegister: informal

Examples

--I temp for money, but it's not my main thing. I write plays.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “temp” mean?

To measure or check the temperature of something, especially food or equipment in a commercial kitchen.

Is “temp” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.