equipoise

[ ee-kwuh-poiz, ek-wuh- ]

noun

1. an equal distribution of weight; even balance; equilibrium.
2. a counterpoise.

verb (used with object)

, e·qui·poised, e·qui·pois·ing.

1. to equal or offset in weight; balance.

equipoise

/ ˈɛkwɪˌpɔɪz /

noun

1. even balance of weight or other forces; equilibrium
2. a counterbalance; counterpoise

verb

1. tr to offset or balance in weight or force; balance

Word History and Origins

Origin of equipoise¹

First recorded in 1625–35; equi- + poise ¹

Example Sentences

In a capital packed with bloviators and arm-twisters, Jackson maintains an equipoise of soft-spoken graciousness, combining intellectual clarity with iron resolve.

From Los Angeles Times

Often we think that if we are not happy, it's our problem, and we just have to show more grit, or the new terminology, more "mindfulness," and we'd achieve greater equipoise.

From Salon

Through every change of style, Thorn’s voice — low, smoky and pensive, rarely indulging in vibrato or ornamentation — gave the duo’s songs an emotional equipoise.

From New York Times

When it’s complete, the mobile sits in perfect equipoise.

From Washington Post

As we picked up the action a decade after said wedding, we found an unhappy family enduring in a kind of uneasy equipoise.

From New York Times