Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

poised

American  
[poizd] / pɔɪzd /

adjective

  1. (of a person) composed, dignified, and self-assured.

  2. being in balance or equilibrium.

    a ball poised on the nose of a seal.

  3. teetering or wavering.

    to be poised on the brink of disaster.

  4. hovering or suspended in or as in midair.

    a bird poised in flight; a helicopter poised overhead.

  5. readied or prepared to do something or for something to happen.

    a singer poised to make sales history with a new album.


poised British  
/ pɔɪzd /

adjective

  1. self-possessed; dignified; exhibiting composure

  2. balanced and prepared for action

    a skier poised at the top of the slope

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • unpoised adjective

Etymology

Origin of poised

First recorded in 1635–45; poise 1 + -ed 2, -ed 3

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This year, the comedian is poised to run it back, almost certainly with a few more Chalamet digs.

From Los Angeles Times

While Efimova and Mitrofanov look poised to retain their US crown, the duo are sweating on their eligibility for a place at the Olympics.

From Barron's

Tyler Higbee is off injured reserve after an ankle injury and contributing again for a Rams tight ends group that is poised to cause issues for opposing defenses.

From Los Angeles Times

“That said, we believe our current portfolio is poised to continue to perform quite well and operate at the highest standards for residents.”

From Barron's

“That said, we believe our current portfolio is poised to continue to perform quite well and operate at the highest standards for residents.”

From Barron's