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DictionarykilterProper condition
noun

kilter

KIL-ter/ˈkɪltər/

A state of proper working order or balance.

The scale remains in kilter, its matching weights holding the beam level.

A well-maintained two-pan balance scale stands in perfect equilibrium, its beam horizontal and matching weights resting in level pans, making proper balance visible.
Etymology
kilterEnglishgood condition, order

Kilter is apparently a variant of dialectal kelter, “good condition” or “order,” whose origin is unknown. Out of kilter describes something no longer working properly or in balance.

In context

Remember The News339:41
The standout result is that result from the north-east which is out of kilter with the predictions
Decision Time : In or Out - Sky News 23 Jun 2016 21:30

More examples

  • My sleep schedule is out of kilter after the trip.
  • One unexpected bill throws our monthly budget out of kilter.
  • The repairs bring the old engine back into kilter.

Similar words

order
Emphasizes proper arrangement or functioning rather than balance.
balance
Emphasizes equilibrium or proportion rather than general working condition.
condition
Describes a state generally, whether good or bad.