The Spanish verb 'templar' comes from the Latin word 'temperare', meaning 'to moderate or temper'. This Latin root carried the idea of bringing something to a proper or moderate state, particularly in reference to heat or temperature, as well as mixing or balancing elements in proper proportion. The Spanish 'templar' preserved this core meaning of moderating or tempering, especially in contexts like tempering metal or adjusting temperature.

Several common Spanish words share this Latin root, including 'temperatura' (temperature), 'temperamento' (temperament), and 'templado' (temperate, mild). The adjective 'templado' is particularly common and refers to something that is moderate or mild in temperature - neither too hot nor too cold. These words all preserve the core concept of moderation and balance from their Latin ancestor.

English speakers might recognize the connection to words like 'temper', 'temperature', and 'temperament', which all come from the same Latin root 'temperare'. Just as 'templar' in Spanish refers to moderating or tempering something, the English word 'temper' can refer to hardening metal through heating and cooling, or moderating one's behavior. 'Temperature' refers to the degree of heat in something, while 'temperament' describes someone's natural disposition or character - all these words maintain a connection to the original Latin idea of moderation and proper balance.