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The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 (gcide)

Balance \Bal"ance\ (b[a^]l"ans), v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Balanced}
(b[a^]l"anst); p. pr. & vb. n. {Balancing}
(b[a^]l"an*s[i^]ng).] [From {Balance}, n.: cf. F. balancer.]
1. To bring to an equipoise, as the scales of a balance by
adjusting the weights; to weigh in a balance.
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2. To support on a narrow base, so as to keep from falling;
as, to balance a plate on the end of a cane; to balance
one's self on a tight rope.
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3. To equal in number, weight, force, or proportion; to
counterpoise, counterbalance, counteract, or neutralize.
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One expression . . . must check and balance another.
--Kent.
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4. To compare in relative force, importance, value, etc.; to
estimate.
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Balance the good and evil of things. --L'Estrange.
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5. To settle and adjust, as an account; to make two accounts
equal by paying the difference between them.
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I am very well satisfied that it is not in my power
to balance accounts with my Maker. --Addison.
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6. To make the sums of the debits and credits of an account
equal; -- said of an item; as, this payment, or credit,
balances the account.
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7. To arrange accounts in such a way that the sum total of
the debits is equal to the sum total of the credits; as,
to balance a set of books.
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8. (Dancing) To move toward, and then back from,
reciprocally; as, to balance partners.
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9. (Naut.) To contract, as a sail, into a narrower compass;
as, to balance the boom mainsail.
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{Balanced valve}. See {Balance valve}, under {Balance}, n.
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Syn: To poise; weigh; adjust; counteract; neutralize;
equalize.
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