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poise (1)
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poise (1)

poise [ poyz ]


noun 
Definition:
 
1. composure: calm self-assured dignity, especially in dealing with social situations

2. controlled grace in movement: a graceful controlled way of standing, moving, or performing an action

3. equilibrium: a stable state of balance

4. suspended state: a state of hovering or being in suspension ( literary )



transitive and intransitive verb  (past and past participle poised, present participle pois·ing, 3rd person present singular pois·es)
Definition:
 
balance: to be balanced or suspended, or place or hold something in balance or suspension

[14th century. The noun is via Old French pois "weight, balance"; the verb via peser "weigh," both ultimately < Latin pensare (see pensive)]
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