Counterpoises

/ˌkaʊntərˈpɔɪzɪz/ verb

Definition

Third-person singular present: to balance or keep something in equilibrium using an equal and opposite force.

Etymology

Verb form of counterpoise; the third-person present tense following standard English verb conjugation patterns.

Kelly Says

Nature is constantly counterpoising forces—gravity and air resistance on a falling leaf, predator and prey populations in an ecosystem—and when those counterpoises break down, entire systems collapse, which is why ecology is so delicate.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.