Definitions
1.nounA state in which opposing forces harmonise; equilibrium.
2.nounMental equilibrium; mental health; calmness, a state of remaining clear-headed and unperturbed.
3.nounSomething of equal weight used to provide equilibrium; counterweight."Blair thought he could provide a useful balance to Bush's policies."
4.nounA pair of scales.
5.nounAwareness of both viewpoints or matters; neutrality; rationality; objectivity.
6.nounThe overall result of conflicting forces, opinions etc.; the influence which ultimately "weighs" more than others."I think the balance of opinion is that we should get out while we're ahead."
7.nounApparent harmony in art (between differing colours, sounds, etc.).
8.nounA list accounting for the debits on one side, and for the credits on the other.
9.nounThe result of such a procedure; the difference between credit and debit of an account."I just need to nip to a bank and check my balance."
10.nounA device used to regulate the speed of a watch, clock etc.
11.nounThe remainder."The balance of the agreement remains in effect."
12.nounLibra.
13.verbTo bring (items) to an equipoise, as the scales of a balance by adjusting the weights.
14.verbTo make (concepts) agree.
15.verbTo hold (an object or objects) precariously; to support on a narrow base, so as to keep from falling."I balanced my mug of coffee on my knee."
16.verbTo compare in relative force, importance, value, etc.; to estimate.
17.verb(dancing) To move toward, and then back from, reciprocally."to balance partners"
18.verbTo contract, as a sail, into a narrower compass."to balance the boom mainsail"
19.verbTo make the credits and debits of (an account) correspond."This final payment, or credit, balances the account."
20.verbTo be in equilibrium.
21.verbTo have matching credits and debits.
22.verbTo weigh in a balance.
23.verbTo hesitate or fluctuate.