poising Definition

poise¹
noun

1. Self-confidence, calm or composure.

Thesaurus: composure, dignity, aplomb, calmness, collectedness, equanimity, savoir-faire, sang-froid, presence of mind, cool (slang), coolness, assurance.
2. Grace of posture or carriage.
3. A state of equilibrium, balance or stability, eg between extremes.

verb poised, poising

tr & intr
1. To balance or suspend.

Thesaurus: position, balance, hold, hang, float, suspend, support, hover.
2. To be in a state of readiness.

Example: She was poised to take over as leader

Etymology: 16c in noun sense 3; 14c in obsolete sense ‘ to weigh': from French pois, from Latin pensum, from pendere to weigh.