: having poise:
a
: marked by balance or equilibrium
b
: marked by easy composure of manner or bearing

Examples of poised in a Sentence

The actors were poised on the stage, ready for the curtain to come up. She held the pencil poised over the paper. The company is poised for success. She seemed poised to take on the leadership of the country. He is now poised to become the next big star in country music. a city poised between the mountains and the sea a group of people poised between hope and fear
Recent Examples on the Web Hathaway is Rebecca, a poised and progressive psychologist who joins the staff and instantly seduces Eileen, setting up one hell of a Christmas surprise. Bonnie Johnson, Los Angeles Times, 30 Nov. 2023 But so far, the 1-2 punch of Gonzalez and Jonathan Jones on the outside is looking like a poised and dangerous starting combo. Conor Ryan, BostonGlobe.com, 28 July 2023 Before Robbie’s backstory was released, the onscreen moment quickly became the talk of the internet as fans wondered how her feet were able to stay poised and in Mattel doll formation. Michelle Lee, Peoplemag, 27 June 2023 But Clark, who was standing just off third base, gave Marmen a gesture as if reminding her to stay poised and not try to do too much. Sam Cohn, Baltimore Sun, 14 Apr. 2023 In spite of the athletic feat, you’re supposed to look very poised and relaxed. Sophia Scorziello, Variety, 25 May 2023 Alana Griffith mixed a sweet nature, strength and dignity in her portrayal of Wendy Darling, making her aerial and earthbound scenes equally graceful, poised and full of character. Elaine Schmidt, Journal Sentinel, 12 May 2023 Curry mostly stays quiet, poised, unflappable. Ron Kroichick, San Francisco Chronicle, 29 Mar. 2023 Somehow, after being named the L.A. Times’ player of the year for two straight seasons, Watkins has further refined her game as a senior — more poised, more mature, averaging 30 points and 15 rebounds. Los Angeles Times, 23 Feb. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'poised.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1626, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of poised was in 1626

Dictionary Entries Near poised

Cite this Entry

“Poised.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/poised. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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