counterweight

noun

coun·​ter·​weight ˈkau̇n-tər-ˌwāt How to pronounce counterweight (audio)
Synonyms of counterweightnext
: an equivalent weight or force : counterbalance
counterweight transitive verb

Examples of counterweight in a Sentence

The crane has a heavy counterweight on the back. hard work can often be a counterweight to modest intelligence
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But the cure is not to demand that one private foundation become the counterweight to three centuries of capitalist common sense. The Atlantic, 16 June 2026 As a counterweight, a periphery of mass opinion—a new version of the public sphere—can force fresh items onto the societal agenda. Alex Ross, New Yorker, 15 June 2026 Chronic stress is eroding sleep, focus and mood for millions of Americans — and the cheapest, fastest counterweight may already be sitting in your sneakers. Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 June 2026 Nuno Mendes — Portugal/PSG The world’s best left-back is the perfect counterweight to Hakimi for PSG, and his lightning surges forward should provide a dangerous outlet for Portugal’s talented midfielders, as well as a valuable line of supply to Cristiano Ronaldo. Liam Twomey, New York Times, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for counterweight

Word History

First Known Use

1693, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of counterweight was in 1693

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Cite this Entry

“Counterweight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/counterweight. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

counterweight

noun
coun·​ter·​weight ˈkau̇nt-ər-ˌwāt How to pronounce counterweight (audio)

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