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equilibrium

ee-kwuh-LIB-ree-uhm /ˌiːkwɪˈlɪbriəm/

nounC1GRESATGMAT

AcademicScientific

A state in which opposing forces or influences are balanced.

In mental health, it refers to emotional stability and a sense of inner calm where different aspects of life are in harmony.

The story behind the word. The word is a literal translation of 'equal scales.' The 'libra' part is the same root used for the zodiac sign Libra, represented by the scales of justice.

Word relationships

balance: 'Balance' is the common term; 'equilibrium' is more technical and implies a system of forces.
composure: 'Composure' is specifically about outward calmness; 'equilibrium' is about internal stability.

imbalance: A lack of proportion or relation between corresponding things.
instability: The state of being likely to change or fail.

Commonly confused with

stasis: 'Stasis' is a period of no change or movement; 'equilibrium' can involve active, balanced movement.

Word family

equilibrate (verb): To bring into or keep in equilibrium.

Collocations

emotional equilibrium
restore equilibrium
maintain equilibrium
unstable equilibrium

Example sentences

"The primary goal of the treatment was to help the patient recover his emotional equilibrium after the divorce." Describing the goal of therapy.
"Nature always seeks a state of equilibrium, where every force is countered by an equal and opposite one." A scientific observation about systems.

Memory hook

Equal-Librium: Equal weights on the Lib (scales). The level scales.

When not to use

Avoid using it for simple physical balance (like standing on one leg) unless you want to sound overly formal; 'balance' is usually sufficient.

Fun facts

The abbreviation 'lb' for pound comes from 'libra,' the same root found in equilibrium.