n.
       - an even distribution of weight ensuring stability. ▸Sailing  the ability of a boat to stay on course without adjustment of the rudder. 
- mental or emotional stability.
- a condition in which different elements are equal or in the correct proportions.
- an apparatus for weighing, especially one with a central pivot, beam, and two scales.
- a counteracting weight or force. ▸
(also balance wheel)
 the regulating device in a clock or watch. 
- a predominating amount; a preponderance:![]()  the balance of opinion was that work was important. 
- a figure representing the amount of money held in an account:![]()  his bank balance. ▸the difference between an amount due and an amount paid. 
v.
   - be or put in a steady position.
- offset or compare the value of (one thing) with another. ▸
[ often as adj. balanced]
 establish equal or appropriate proportions of elements in: ![]()  a balanced diet. 
- compare debits and credits in (an account) to ensure that they are equal.
Phrase
  
    - balance of payments
 the difference in total value between payments into and out of a country over a period.
- balance of power
 - a situation in which states of the world have roughly equal power.
- the power held by a small group when larger groups are of equal strength.
 
- balance of trade
 the difference in value between a country's imports and exports.
- be 
(or hang)
 in the balance
 be in an uncertain or critical state.
- on balance
 when all factors are taken into consideration.
- throw 
(or catch)
 someone off balance
 make someone unsteady or catch someone unawares.
 
  Derivative
  
  Etymology
  ME: from OFr. balance (n.), balancer (v.), based on late L. (libra) bilanx ‘(balance) having two scale-pans’.