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The Collaborative International Dictionary
Balanced valve

Balance \Bal"ance\ (b[a^]l"ans), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Balanced (b[a^]l"anst); p. pr. & vb. n. Balancing (b[a^]l"an*s[i^]ng).] [From Balance, n.: cf. F. balancer.]

  1. To bring to an equipoise, as the scales of a balance by adjusting the weights; to weigh in a balance.

  2. To support on a narrow base, so as to keep from falling; as, to balance a plate on the end of a cane; to balance one's self on a tight rope.

  3. To equal in number, weight, force, or proportion; to counterpoise, counterbalance, counteract, or neutralize.

    One expression . . . must check and balance another.
    --Kent.

  4. To compare in relative force, importance, value, etc.; to estimate.

    Balance the good and evil of things.
    --L'Estrange.

  5. To settle and adjust, as an account; to make two accounts equal by paying the difference between them.

    I am very well satisfied that it is not in my power to balance accounts with my Maker.
    --Addison.

  6. To make the sums of the debits and credits of an account equal; -- said of an item; as, this payment, or credit, balances the account.

  7. To arrange accounts in such a way that the sum total of the debits is equal to the sum total of the credits; as, to balance a set of books.

  8. (Dancing) To move toward, and then back from, reciprocally; as, to balance partners.

  9. (Naut.) To contract, as a sail, into a narrower compass; as, to balance the boom mainsail.

    Balanced valve. See Balance valve, under Balance, n.

    Syn: To poise; weigh; adjust; counteract; neutralize; equalize.