Definition Definition

poise - Meaning and Examples

Meaning of 'poise' (Webster Dictionary)

1 . Poise [ n.]
- To balance; to make of equal weight; as, to poise the scales of a balance.
- To hold or place in equilibrium or equiponderance.
- To counterpoise; to counterbalance.
- To ascertain, as by the balance; to weigh.
- To weigh (down); to oppress.
2 . Poise [ v.]
- Weight; gravity; that which causes a body to descend; heaviness.
- The weight, or mass of metal, used in weighing, to balance the substance weighed.
- The state of being balanced by equal weight or power; equipoise; balance; equilibrium; rest.
- That which causes a balance; a counterweight.
3 . Poise [ v. i.]
- To hang in equilibrium; to be balanced or suspended; hence, to be in suspense or doubt.

Meaning of 'poise' (Princeton's WordNet)

1 . poise [ n]
Meaning (1):
- great coolness and composure under strain
Example in sentence:
  • keep your cool
2 . poise [ v]
Meaning (2):
- be motionless, in suspension
Example in sentence:
  • The bird poised for a few moments before it attacked