Definition of "poise" []

• To carry or hold in equilibrium; balance. (verb-transitive)
• To be balanced or held in suspension; hover. (verb-intransitive)
• A state of balance or equilibrium; stability. (noun)
• Freedom from affectation or embarrassment; composure. (noun)
• The bearing or deportment of the head or body; mien. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Something happens to a man that deeply stirs him, as an insult, or a falling out with a friend, or the loss of money, -- something which disturbs what we call his poise or peace of mind."
• "I've gained lifelong friends, fans and customers from them witnessing what they call poise under pressure - and I call common courtesy."
• "Her grace a poise is beyond anything Ive ever seen."