counterpoise

[ koun-ter-poiz ]

noun

1. a counterbalancing weight.
2. any equal and opposing power or force.
3. the state of being in equilibrium; balance.
4. Radio. a network of wires or other conductors connected to the base of an antenna, used as a substitute for the ground connection.

verb (used with object)

, coun·ter·poised, coun·ter·pois·ing.

1. to balance by an opposing weight; counteract by an opposing force.
2. to bring into equilibrium.
3. Archaic. to weigh (one thing) against something else; consider carefully.

counterpoise

/ ˈkaʊntəˌpɔɪz /

noun

1. a force, influence, etc, that counterbalances another
2. a state of balance; equilibrium
3. a weight that balances another
4. a radial array of metallic wires, rods, or tubes arranged horizontally around the base of a vertical aerial to increase its transmitting efficiency

verb

1. to oppose with something of equal effect, weight, or force; offset
2. to bring into equilibrium
3. archaic.
   to consider (one thing) carefully in relation to another

Word History and Origins

Origin of counterpoise¹

1375–1425; counter- + poise ¹; replacing late Middle English countrepeis < Anglo-French, equivalent to Old French contrepois

Example Sentences

I felt that the only counterpoise to my cruelty to you in my drawing-room would be to come as a suppliant to yours.'

From Project Gutenberg

This was a dream which is obviously a counterpoise to the exaggerated feeling of royal power.

From Project Gutenberg

Then the counterpoise is diminished; the mechanical difficulty of lifting is augmented, yet still it takes place.

From Project Gutenberg

Against the suffering of sensuous nature the human heart has only recourse to its moral nature as counterpoise.

From Project Gutenberg

This may not be a counterpoise to the existing evils, but it is at least a share of mortal good, and good of an exquisite kind.

From Project Gutenberg