Counterpoised

/ˌkaʊntərˈpɔɪzd/ adjective

Definition

Balanced or kept in equilibrium by an equal and opposite force or weight.

Etymology

Past participle of counterpoise used as adjective; formed by adding -ed to the verb. This form became standard in English around the 16th-17th centuries as engineering terminology solidified.

Kelly Says

A dancer or gymnast performing a perfect arabesque is displaying a counterpoised body—they've learned to distribute their weight so precisely that their limbs extend in seemingly impossible directions while remaining perfectly balanced.

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