counterbalance

Meaning

Noun

1. (literally) A weight that is put in opposition to an equal weight so it keeps that in balance.
2. (figuratively) A force or influence that balances, checks or limits an opposite one.

Verb

1. (transitive) To apply weight in order to balance an opposing weight.
2. (figuratively, transitive) To match or equal in effect when applying opposing force.

Opposite of

outweigh, overcome, overpower

Synonyms

counterpoise

counterweight

balance

offset

equipoise

neutralize

compensate

counterpose

equalizer

balance weight

poise

equaliser

oppose

equilibrium

equilibrate

even out

correct

counteract

counter balance

countervail

even off

even up

make up

set against

back balance

correspond

table balance

out-balance

neutralise

contrast

compensation

compensate for

outweigh

parallel

ballast

rectify

weight counterbalance

set off

set right

square

stand-off

balanced

weight

additional weight

balancing weight

kite tail

equilibrant

equal

counterweigh

equiponderate

Translations

contrapeso

contrapeso

contrepoids

contrappeso

Gegengewicht

contrebalancer

contrarestar

contrapès

controbilanciare

équilibre

contrabalançar

contrabalancear

neutralizzare

Pronounced as (IPA)

/ˌkaʊntəˈbæləns/

Etymology

From counter- + balance.