Definition of equilibrium
equilibriums
orequilibria
play \ˌē-kwə-ˈli-brē-ə, ˌe-\1a : a state of intellectual or emotional balance : poise trying to recover his equilibriumb : a state of adjustment between opposing or divergent influences or elements
2 : a state of balance between opposing forces or actions that is either static (as in a body acted on by forces whose resultant is zero) or dynamic (as in a reversible chemical reaction when the rates of reaction in both directions are equal)
3 : balance 6a
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Examples of equilibrium in a Sentence
Supply and demand were in equilibrium.
we must find an equilibrium between commercial development and conservation of our natural treasures
Recent Examples of equilibrium from the Web
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Even as one strives for high achievement, there are some dimensions of daily life that require equilibrium, the acceptance of dark and light, knowledge and unknowing, give and take.
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The mathematics behind the general equilibrium proofs of Professor Arrow and his co-authors were daunting.
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In this performance, Cicero reminds us that the first step out of chaos lies in our individual ability to find a stoic equilibrium, a strength of will that protects us from being buffeted by storm and scandal.
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The original cast members who are interviewed recovered their equilibrium, put on a brave face and went on with their lives.
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The original cast members who are interviewed recovered their equilibrium, put on a brave face and went on with their lives.
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Russia will also be a factor in the equilibrium of Asia.
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The U.K. grocery market has found an uneasy equilibrium this year, with Tesco buoyed by the decline of Wal-Mart’s Asda chain in particular.
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In Germany, Twain was finding the equilibrium that had deserted him at home.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'equilibrium'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Did You Know?
Equilibrium contains a root from the Latin libra, meaning "weight" or "balance". As a constellation, zodiac symbol, and astrological sign, Libra is usually pictured as a set of balance scales, often held by the blindfolded goddess of justice, which symbolizes fairness, equality, and justice. Equilibrium has special meanings in biology, chemistry, physics, and economics, but in all of them it refers to the balance of competing influences.
Origin and Etymology of equilibrium
Latin aequilibrium, from aequilibris being in equilibrium, from aequi- + libra weight, balance
First Known Use: 1608
Other Physics Terms
EQUILIBRIUM Defined for English Language Learners
equilibrium
playDefinition of equilibrium for English Language Learners
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: a state in which opposing forces or actions are balanced so that one is not stronger or greater than the other
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: a state of emotional balance or calmness
EQUILIBRIUM Defined for Kids
equilibrium
playDefinition of equilibrium for Students
1 : a state of balance between opposing forces or actions
2 : the normal balanced state of the body that is maintained by the inner ear and that keeps a person or animal from falling
Medical Dictionary
Medical Definition of equilibrium
equilibriums
orequilibria
\-rē-ə\play1: a state of balance between opposing forces or actions that is either static (as in a body acted on by forces whose resultant is zero) or dynamic (as in a reversible chemical reaction when the velocities in both directions are equal)
2: a state of intellectual or emotional balance
Learn More about equilibrium
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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for equilibrium Spanish Central: Translation of equilibrium Nglish: Translation of equilibrium for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of equilibrium for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about equilibrium
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