Search results for 'balance':

balance noun 1 a state of physical stability in which the weight of a body is evenly distributed. 2 an instrument for weighing, usually with two dishes hanging from a bar supported in the middle. 3 the amount by which the two sides of a financial account (money spent and money received) differ. 4 an amount left over. 5 a state of mental or emotional stability. 6 a state existing when two opposite forces are equal. 7 something that is needed to create such equality. 8 a device which regulates the speed of a clock or watch. verb (balanced, balancing) 1 tr & intr to be in, or put something into, a state of physical balance. 2 (often balance something against something else) to compare two or more things in one's mind; to compare their respective advantages and disadvantages. 3 to find the difference between money put into an account and money taken out of it, and to make them equal • balance the books. 4 intrans (also balance out) to be or become equal in amount. in the balance not yet decided. on balance having taken all the advantages and disadvantages into consideration.
ETYMOLOGY: 14c as noun 2: from Latin bilanx having two scales.