counterbalance
UK: /ˈkaʊntəˌbæləns/ | US: /ˈkaʊntərˌbæləns/
n. a weight or force that balances or offsets another
vt. to act as a counterbalance to; to offset or compensate for
The word "counterbalance" combines "counter," derived from Latin contra (meaning "against"), and "balance," from Latin bilanx (meaning "having two scales"). Historically, it emerged in the 16th century to describe a force or weight opposing another to maintain equilibrium. The logic is straightforward: "counter" introduces opposition, while "balance" ensures stability, reflecting the word's functional purpose in physics and metaphor.
The crane uses a heavy counterbalance to lift loads safely.
Her calm demeanor counterbalanced his impulsive nature.
Taxes act as a counterbalance to unchecked economic growth.
The athlete added weights as a counterbalance during training.
Diplomacy serves as a counterbalance to military aggression.