SKIP TO CONTENT

counterbalance

Other forms: counterbalanced; counterbalancing; counterbalances

Definitions of counterbalance
  1. noun
    a weight that balances another weight
    synonyms: balance, counterpoise, counterweight, equaliser, equalizer
    see moresee less
    types:
    sash weight
    a counterweight for a sliding sash
    tare
    (chemical analysis) a counterweight used in chemical analysis; consists of an empty container that counterbalances the weight of the container holding chemicals
    type of:
    weight
    an artifact that is heavy
  2. noun
    a compensating equivalent
    synonyms: offset
    see moresee less
    type of:
    compensation
    something (such as money) given or received as payment or reparation (as for a service or loss or injury)
  3. noun
    equality of distribution
    synonyms: balance, equilibrium, equipoise
    see moresee less
    types:
    conformation
    a symmetrical arrangement of the parts of a thing
    proportion, symmetry
    balance among the parts of something
    type of:
    construction, structure
    a thing constructed; a complex entity constructed of many parts
Definitions of counterbalance
  1. verb
    oppose and mitigate the effects of by contrary actions
    synonyms: counteract, countervail, neutralize
    see moresee less
    types:
    override
    counteract the normal operation of (an automatic gear shift in a vehicle)
    type of:
    cancel, offset, set off
    make up for
  2. verb
    adjust for
    synonyms: compensate, correct, even off, even out, even up, make up
    see moresee less
    types:
    carry
    compensate for a weaker partner or member by one's own performance
    compensate, cover, overcompensate
    make up for shortcomings or a feeling of inferiority by exaggerating good qualities
    type of:
    balance, equilibrate, equilibrise, equilibrize
    bring into balance or equilibrium
  3. verb
    contrast with equal weight or force
    synonyms: oppose
    see moresee less
    types:
    counterpoise, counterpose, counterweight
    constitute a counterweight or counterbalance to
    type of:
    contrast, counterpoint
    show differences when compared; be different
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

A paragraph of text

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘counterbalance'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family
EDITOR'S CHOICE

Look up counterbalance for the last time

Close your vocabulary gaps with personalized learning that focuses on teaching the words you need to know.

VocabTrainer - Vocabulary.com's Vocabulary Trainer