counterpoise

[ koun-ter-poiz ]

noun

1. a counterbalancing weight.
2. any equal and opposing power or force.
3. the state of being in equilibrium; balance.
4. Radio. a network of wires or other conductors connected to the base of an antenna, used as a substitute for the ground connection.

verb (used with object)

, coun·ter·poised, coun·ter·pois·ing.

1. to balance by an opposing weight; counteract by an opposing force.
2. to bring into equilibrium.
3. Archaic. to weigh (one thing) against something else; consider carefully.

counterpoise

/ ˈkaʊntəˌpɔɪz /

noun

1. a force, influence, etc, that counterbalances another
2. a state of balance; equilibrium
3. a weight that balances another
4. a radial array of metallic wires, rods, or tubes arranged horizontally around the base of a vertical aerial to increase its transmitting efficiency

verb

1. to oppose with something of equal effect, weight, or force; offset
2. to bring into equilibrium
3. archaic.
   to consider (one thing) carefully in relation to another

Word History and Origins

Origin of counterpoise¹

1375–1425; counter- + poise ¹; replacing late Middle English countrepeis < Anglo-French, equivalent to Old French contrepois

Example Sentences

In counterpoise to a candidate trying to claim divine powers, we have a public servant elevated to the role of secular angel, guardian of our democracy.

From Slate

This statement, a counterpoise to the natural-rights thinking of most of America’s founders, could pass as a reflection of Trumpian thinking yesterday, today and tomorrow.

From Salon

Molina, the embodiment of theatrical excellence, is perfectly cast as the rational counterpoise to Brady’s zealotry.

From Los Angeles Times

The deadpan personality Mamet lends to Annie is a crisp counterpoise to Cuoco's mania and far more effective as an oppositional weight than T.R.

From Salon

In the garden, hardy ferns add a counterpoise to everything else, and should be used far more and in greater numbers.

From Washington Post