Poise

Origin

Middle English, to weigh, ponder, from Anglo-French peiser, poiser, from Latin pensare

Date

1598

For lessons on the topic of Poise, follow this link.

Definitions

transitive verb

• 1 a : balance; especially : to hold or carry in equilibrium <carried a water jar poised on her head>

b : to hold supported or suspended without motion in a steady position <poised her fork and gave her guest a knowing look — Louis Bromfield>

• 2 : to hold or carry (the head) in a particular way
• 3 : to put into readiness : brace

intransitive verb

• 1 : to become drawn up into readiness
• 2 : hover

See also

• Balance
• Composure