What does POISE mean?

Parts of Speech

Noun, verb

Definitions

Noun: graceful and elegant bearing in a person; composure and dignity of manner; a state of balance or equilibrium.

Verb: be or cause to be balanced or suspended.

Pronunciations

US: /pɔɪz/

UK: /pɔɪz/

Origin and Usage

The word "poise" comes from the Old French word "poiser" meaning "to weigh" and the Latin word "pensare" meaning "to weigh or consider." The noun form of "poise" refers to a state of balance or equilibrium, while the verb form refers to the act of being or causing to be balanced or suspended. "Poise" is commonly used to describe someone who has a graceful and elegant bearing, or to describe a state of composure and dignity of manner.

Synonyms

Balance, equilibrium, steadiness, composure, self-possession, self-assurance, self-control, self-confidence.

Related Words

Noise, hoise, toise, coirs, hoist.

Example Sentences

Noun:

• She moved with poise and grace across the dance floor.
• He maintained his poise and composure in the face of criticism.
• The ballerinas poise and balance were the envy of her peers.

Verb:

• The acrobat poises herself on the tightrope before beginning her routine.
• He poises the pencil on the edge of the desk, ready to write.
• The bird poises itself in mid-air before swooping down to catch its prey.