counterbalance

²counterbalance

verb \ˌkau̇n-tər-ˈ, ˈkau̇n-tər-ˌ\

Definition of COUNTERBALANCE

transitive verb

1

: to oppose or balance with an equal weight or force

2

: to equip with counterbalances

Examples of COUNTERBALANCE

1. The author's wry humor counterbalances the book's serious subject matter.
2. <a hearty dinner might counterbalance missing lunch>

First Known Use of COUNTERBALANCE

circa 1611

Related to COUNTERBALANCE

Synonyms: annul, cancel (out), compensate (for), correct, counteract, offset, counterpoise, make up (for), negative, neutralize

Related Words: invalidate, negate, neuter, nullify; atone (for); outbalance, outweigh, redeem; redress, relieve, remedy; override, overrule

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