counterpoising

n. [ OE. countrepese, OF. contrepois, F. contrepods. See Counter, adv., and Poise, n. ] 1. A weight sufficient to balance another, as in the opposite scale of a balance; an equal weight. [ 1913 Webster ]

Fastening that to our exact balance, we put a metalline counterpoise into the opposite scale. Boyle. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. An equal power or force acting in opposition; a force sufficient to balance another force. [ 1913 Webster ]

The second nobles are a counterpoise to the higher nobility, that they grow not too potent. Bacon. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. The relation of two weights or forces which balance each other; equilibrium; equiponderance. [ 1913 Webster ]

The pendulous round eart, with balanced air,
In counterpoise. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]