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equilibrium

ee-kwuh-LIB-ree-uhm /ˌiːkwɪˈlɪbriəm/

nounC1GRESAT

ScientificFormal

A state in which opposing forces or influences are perfectly balanced.

Often refers to the internal sense of balance needed to stay upright on ice.

The story behind the word. A combination of the Latin 'aequus' (equal) and 'libra' (balance or scales). It’s the art of keeping your weight perfectly centered so you don’t tip over. This is why the zodiac sign Libra is represented by scales.

Word relationships

balance: Balance is the common word; equilibrium is more formal or scientific.
stability: Stability is the resistance to being knocked over; equilibrium is the state of being balanced.

imbalance: A lack of proportion or balance.

Commonly confused with

stability: Equilibrium is the state of balance; stability is how well you can keep that state.

Word family

equilibrate (verb): To bring into equilibrium.
equilibrist (noun): An acrobat who performs feats of balance.

Collocations

stable equilibrium
maintain equilibrium
chemical equilibrium

Example sentences

"He struggled to maintain his equilibrium on the thin ice as the wind threatened to knock him over." Describing a skater's balance.
"Equilibrium is the condition of a system in which all competing influences are balanced." A scientific explanation.

Memory hook

Equal-librium: Equal weight on both sides. Equilibrium = Equal Balance.

When not to use

Do not use for simple 'steadiness' when 'balance' is more natural.

Fun facts

In economics, 'market equilibrium' is where supply equals demand.
The inner ear is responsible for maintaining a human's sense of equilibrium.

Related words

agility, maneuver

Explore more words

stability, balance, steady, homeostasis, interdependent, equanimity