Counterbalance

/ˈkaʊntərˌbæl əns/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A weight or device used to balance another weight.

The counterbalance on the elevator ensures that it operates smoothly.

A force or influence that offsets or compensates for another.

The increase in online shopping was a counterbalance to the decline of brick-and-mortar stores.

verb

To offset or compensate for something.

The company offered additional benefits to counterbalance the reduced salaries.

To serve as an equal or opposite force.

She used humor to counterbalance the seriousness of the meeting.

From the Middle English 'counterbalancen', from 'counter-' + 'balance'.

counterbalance effect

The influence that one thing has to neutralize or balance another.

counterbalance weight

A weight used to keep something stable by offsetting its weight.

counterbalance tensions

To alleviate the pressures of opposing forces.

balance

An even distribution of weight enabling someone or something to remain upright and steady.

offset

A compensating payment or amount set against another.

compensation

Something, typically money, awarded to someone in recognition of loss, suffering, or injury.

To make up for a lack or deficiency.

I pulled an all-nighter to counterbalance my laziness during the week.

To negate the negative effects of something.

He tried to counterbalance his junk food binge with a workout.