noun / verb
balance
BAL-uhns/ˈbæləns/
A stable state in which opposing forces offset each other.
The identical weights keep the scale in perfect balance.
Etymology
Latin bilancia named weighing scales. The equilibrium of a scale’s two pans supplied the image for a stable arrangement of weight, forces, or parts.
In context
balance, and if you want to turn a ship, you need to upset the balance in your favor. The ship pivots about the center of lateral resistance
More examples
- The recipe strikes a good balance between sweetness and acidity.
- The chemist weighs the sample on a balance.
- She balanced the tray carefully on one hand.
Forms
balance · balances · balanced · balancing
Similar words
- equilibrium
- Emphasizes a state where opposing forces or influences cancel.
- stability
- Emphasizes resistance to change or falling rather than equal opposition.