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Definition of counterbalance

counterbalance

/ˈkaʊn.tɚˌbæl.əns/
coun · ter · bal · ance
Plural:counterbalances
•
Past Simple:counterbalanced
•
Past Participle:counterbalanced
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Present Participle:counterbalancing
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counterbalance Lexical Profile

counterbalance Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A factor, influence, or power that offsets or mitigates an opposing one.

Example

"An independent judiciary serves as a vital counterbalance to executive authority."

2

A weight or mechanical force that balances another weight or force.

Example

"The crane uses a heavy concrete block at the rear as a counterbalance when lifting steel beams."

Synonyms
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• verb

1

To act against or offset with an equal weight, force, or influence so as to restore equilibrium.

Example

"Rising exports helped counterbalance the slowdown in domestic consumer spending."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for counterbalance

• Nearby Words

counterargument
counterattack
counterattacker
counterbalance
counterbid
counterbluff
counterchallenge

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 16th century from Middle French 'contrebalance' (noun) and 'contrebalancer' (verb), formed from 'contre-' (against) and 'balance' (weighing scale), ultimately tracing back to Late Latin 'bilanx' (having two scale pans).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Counterbalance. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/counterbalance
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