counterbalance

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[edit] English

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[edit] Etymology

counter (from Latin contra 'against') + balance

[edit] Noun

Singular
counterbalance

Plural
counterbalances

counterbalance (plural counterbalances)

  1. (literally) A weight that is put in opposition to an equal weight so it keeps that in balance.
  2. (figuratively) A force or influence that balances, checks or limits an opposite one.

[edit] Synonyms

[edit] Translations

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[edit] Verb

Infinitive
to counterbalance

Third person singular
counterbalances

Simple past
counterbalanced

Past participle
counterbalanced

Present participle
counterbalancing

to counterbalance (third-person singular simple present counterbalances, present participle counterbalancing, simple past and past participle counterbalanced)

(transitive)

  1. To apply weight in order to balance an opposing one.
    Big brother counterbalances his two siblings to the pound
  2. To apply force in order to balance an opposite one.
    Arm wrestling is undecided as long as the opponents counterbalance each-other
  3. (figuratively) To match, equal in effect
    The defenders' knowledge of the terrain roughly counterbalances the attackers' superior equipment

[edit] Synonyms

[edit] Antonyms

[edit] Translations