poise

Poise (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

IPA:

What does poise mean?

A state of balance, grace, and self-assured composure, both in one's physical bearing and in their demeanor.
"The ice skater glided across the rink with poise and precision."

Detailed Meaning of Poise

When someone possesses poise, they exhibit a calm and dignified demeanor, often regardless of external pressures or challenges. Poise involves the ability to maintain a poised and graceful posture and to act with confidence and equanimity in various situations. It implies a sense of inner tranquility and emotional stability, allowing an individual to handle stress or difficult circumstances with grace and self-assuredness. Poise is often associated with elegance, self-control, and the ability to remain collected, making it a valuable quality in personal and professional interactions.

Example Sentences for Poise

1. Her poise on the dance floor was captivating.
2. He handled the challenging situation with poise.
3. The athlete exhibited exceptional poise under pressure.
4. She faced criticism with unwavering poise.
5. His poise in public speaking impressed the audience.
6. The model walked the runway with effortless poise.

Origin and Etymology of Poise

The noun 'poise' traces its origins to the Old French word 'pois,' which means 'weight' or 'balance.' Over time, 'pois' evolved into 'poise' in Middle English, retaining its sense of balance and equilibrium. In English, 'poise' came to describe a state of balance, grace, and self-assured composure, both in one's physical bearing and in their demeanor. It emphasizes the idea of maintaining a poised and graceful demeanor, even in challenging or stressful situations. The etymology of 'poise' underscores its historical connection to the concept of balance and equilibrium, highlighting the quality of being gracefully composed and self-assured, both physically and mentally.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun poise:

clumsiness

imbalance

awkwardness

composure

Try Again!

Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Poise

1. Poise is essential for a successful diplomat.
2. She exudes poise in every aspect of her life.
3. His poise in a crisis situation saved lives.
4. The leader's poise inspired confidence in the team.
5. They felt that he lacked sufficient poise to perform the role.
6. She paused for a moment but quickly regained her poise.
7. She is very well qualified but lacks the required confidence and poise.
8. She walked with poise and confidence down the catwalk.
9. The gymnast maintained her poise even as she swung wildly on the uneven bars.
10. He answered the difficult question with poise and without hesitation.
11. The ballet dancer displayed poise and control as she gracefully enpointed each movement.
12. The actor maintained his poise even as he stumbled over his lines.
13. The speaker addressed the crowd with poise and authority.
14. She wore a black fitted suit and stood with confidence and poise.
15. She maintained her poise under pressure and made the winning shot.
16. The pianist played the complex piece with poise and finesse.
17. The politician answered the tough questions with poise and polemics.
18. The martial artist performed the difficult techniques with poise and power.
19. The model strutted down the runway with poise and elegance.