counterbalance

Plural: counterbalances

Noun

• a weight that balances another weight
• equality of distribution
• a compensating equivalent
• A weight that is put in opposition to an equal weight so it keeps that in balance.
• A force or influence that balances, checks or limits an opposite one.

Verb

• adjust for
• contrast with equal weight or force
• oppose and mitigate the effects of by contrary actions
• To apply weight in order to balance an opposing weight.
• To match or equal in effect when applying opposing force.

Examples

• Arm wrestling is undecided as long as the opponents counterbalance each other.
• Big brother counterbalances his two siblings to the pound.
• The defenders' knowledge of the terrain roughly counterbalances the attackers' superior equipment.

Synonyms

balance, compensate, correct, counteract, counterpoise, countervail, counterweight, equaliser, equalizer, equilibrium, equipoise, even off, even out, even up, make up, neutralize, offset, oppose, counterweigh, equiponderate

Antonyms

outweigh, overcome, overpower