A Quick and Simple Dictionary

poise

1. Noun.  (obsolete) Weight; an amount of weight, the amount something weighs.
2. Noun.  A state of balance, equilibrium or stability.
3. Noun.  composure; freedom from embarrassment or affectation.
4. Noun.  mien; bearing or deportment of the head or body.
5. Noun.  A condition of hovering, or being suspended.
6. Noun.  (physics) A cgs unit of dynamic viscosity equal to one dyne-second per square centimeter.
7. Verb.  (obsolete) To hang in equilibrium; to be balanced or suspended; hence, to be in suspense or doubt.
8. Verb.  (obsolete) To be of a given weight; to weigh. (defdate, 14th-17th c.) .
9. Verb.  (obsolete) To add weight to, to weigh down. (defdate, 16th-18th c.) .
10. Verb.  (context, now) To hold (something) (term, with) or (term, against) something else in equilibrium; to balance, counterpose. (defdate, from 16th c.) .
11. Verb.  To hold (something) in equilibrium, to hold balanced and ready; to carry (something) ready to be used. (defdate, from 16th c.) .
12. Verb.  To keep (something) in equilibrium; to hold suspended or balanced. (defdate, from 17th c.) .