Definition of "balance" in Anglais

noun

1. (uncountable) A state in which opposing forces harmonise; equilibrium.

2. (uncountable) Mental equilibrium; mental health; calmness, a state of remaining clear-headed and unperturbed.

3. (literally or figuratively) Something of equal weight used to provide equilibrium; counterweight.

   • These weights are used as a balance for the overhanging verandah.
   • Blair thought he could provide a useful balance to Bush's policies.

4. A pair of scales.

5. (uncountable) Awareness of both viewpoints or matters; neutrality; rationality; objectivity.

6. (uncountable) The overall result of conflicting forces, opinions etc.; the influence which ultimately "weighs" more than others.

   • The balance of power finally lay with the Royalist forces.
   • I think the balance of opinion is that we should get out while we're ahead.

7. (uncountable) Apparent harmony in art (between differing colours, sounds, etc.).

8. (accounting) A list accounting for the debits on one side, and for the credits on the other.

9. (accounting) The result of such a procedure; the difference between credit and debit of an account.

   • I just need to nip to a bank and check my balance.

10. (watchmaking) A device used to regulate the speed of a watch, clock etc.

11. (law, business, statistics) The remainder.

    • The balance of the agreement remains in effect.
    • The invoice said he had only paid $50. The balance was $220.
    • Balance Luzon

12. (obsolete, astrology) Libra.

verb

1. (transitive) To bring (items) to an equipoise, as the scales of a balance by adjusting the weights.

2. (transitive, figurative) To make (concepts) agree.

3. (transitive) To hold (an object or objects) precariously; to support on a narrow base, so as to keep from falling.

   • I balanced my mug of coffee on my knee.
   • The circus performer balances a plate on the end of a baton.

4. (transitive) To compare in relative force, importance, value, etc.; to estimate.

5. (transitive, dance) To move toward, and then back from, reciprocally.

   • to balance partners

6. (nautical) To contract, as a sail, into a narrower compass.

   • to balance the boom mainsail

7. (transitive) To make the credits and debits of (an account) correspond.