counterpoise

views updated May 21 2018

coun·ter·poise / ˈkountərˌpoiz/ • n. a factor, force, or influence that balances or neutralizes another. ∎ archaic a state of equilibrium. ∎  a counterbalancing weight.• v. [tr.] have an opposing and balancing effect on. ∎  bring into contrast: the stories counterpoise a young recruit with an old-timer.

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