verb
poise
To hold something balanced or ready for action.
She poises her pen above the page, ready to write.
Etymology
The French verb means to weigh. Balancing a weight developed into holding something steadily, including in a position from which action can immediately begin.
More examples
- He poised the tray on one hand while opening the door.
- The runners are poised to sprint when the whistle blows.
- The dancer poises on one foot before the next step.
Forms
poise · poises · poised · poising