Balance
/ˈbæləns/
Definitions
2 meaningsA state of equilibrium or equipoise; equal distribution of weight.
/ˈbæləns/
A state of equilibrium
The acrobat maintained perfect balance.
💡 Simply: When things are equal and stable.
More Examples
There's a need to find a balance between work and life.
How It's Used
"The tightrope walker maintained his balance."
"The company's balance sheet showed a healthy balance."
To bring into equilibrium; to make equal or offset.
/ˈbæləns/
To bring into equilibrium
He balanced the books.
💡 Simply: To make things equal or even.
More Examples
She balanced herself on the edge of the cliff.
How It's Used
"We need to balance the budget."
"Balance the flavors in the dish."
Idioms & expressions
balance of power
A situation where the power of different groups is roughly equal.
"The balance of power shifted after the recent elections."
From Old French 'balance', ultimately from Latin 'bis' (twice) and 'lanx' (scales), reflecting the use of scales for weighing.
The word's connection to weighing scales is evident in its early usage, reflecting its core meaning of equilibrium.
Memory tip
Think of scales balancing equally.