Counterbalance

Quick meaning: Counterbalance is a noun meaning (literally) A weight that is put in opposition to an equal weight so it keeps that in balance.

Meaning

(literally) A weight that is put in opposition to an equal weight so it keeps that in balance.

More Meanings

1. (figuratively) A force or influence that balances, checks or limits an opposite one.
2. (transitive) To apply weight in order to balance an opposing weight.
3. (transitive, figuratively) To match or equal in effect when applying opposing force.

Example Sentences

Big brother counterbalances his two siblings to the pound.

Arm wrestling is undecided as long as the opponents counterbalance each other.

[…] the remaining Air was not able to counterballance the Mercurial Cylinder, […]

The defenders' knowledge of the terrain roughly counterbalances the attackers' superior equipment.

Word Forms

• counterbalances
• counterbalancing
• counterbalanced

Synonyms for counterbalance

Depending on context, synonyms include counterpoise, counterweight, equipoise, equiponderate, counterweigh, counteract.

Antonyms for counterbalance

Common opposites include outweigh, overcome, overpower.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include counterpoise, offset, equalizer, equipoise, balance, equilibrium.

Related Dictionary Tools