balance

Definition

A state in which opposing forces harmonise; equilibrium.

Etymology

From Middle English balaunce, from Old French balance, from Late Latin *bilancia, from (accusative form of) Latin bilanx (“two-scaled”), from bi- + lanx (“plate, scale”). Displaced the word — Old English wǣġ akin to Modern English: wey from Proto-West Germanic *wāgu (“scales; weight”).

Example Sentences

• "But civilized man is quite a different animal, and when he wipes out an entire city or levels a forest, he is no longer working within the natural balance of things."
• "These weights are used as a balance for the overhanging verandah."
• "Blair thought he could provide a useful balance to Bush's policies."