definition of
poise

[1] #1 poise v. be motionless, in suspension; "The bird poised for a few moments before it attacked". wn

[2] #2 poise n. a cgs unit of dynamic viscosity equal to one dyne-second per square centimeter; the viscosity of a fluid in which a force of one dyne per square centimeter maintains a velocity of 1 centimeter per second. wn

[3] #3 poise v. [brace] prepare (oneself) for something unpleasant or difficult. wn

[4] #4 poise v. cause to be balanced or suspended. wn

[5] #5 poise n. a state of being balanced in a stable equilibrium. wn