poise poise /ˈpɔɪz/

noun

1. () 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  ( poise )
   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
   
2. Great coolness and composure under strain  ( assuredness , cool , poise , aplomb , sang-froid , sangfroid )
   great coolness and composure under strain
    Keep your cool
   keep your cool
   
   
3. A state of being balanced in a stable equilibrium  ( poise )
   a state of being balanced in a stable equilibrium
   

verb

1. () Be motionless, in suspension  ( poise )
   be motionless, in suspension
    The bird poised for a few moments before it attacked
   The bird poised for a few moments before it attacked
   
2. () Cause to be balanced or suspended  ( poise )
   cause to be balanced or suspended
   
3. () Prepare (oneself) for something unpleasant or difficult  ( poise , brace )
   prepare (oneself) for something unpleasant or difficult
     I brace myself for the impact as the roller coaster takes a sudden drop.
   I brace myself for the impact as the roller coaster takes a sudden drop.
   
4. Hold or carry in equilibrium  ( poise , balance )
   hold or carry in equilibrium