counterbalance

 

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈkaʊntəˌbal(ə)ns/
  • a weight that balances another weight: the trolley used a counterbalance and leverage action to reduce the effort of lifting loads
  • a factor having the opposite effect to that of another and so preventing it from exercising a disproportionate influence: his restoration to power was intended as a counterbalance to his rival’s influence

verb

Pronunciation: /ˌkaʊntəˈbal(ə)ns/
[with object]
  • (of a weight) balance (another weight): the sitter’s weight counterbalances the tilting pressure on the backrest
  • neutralize or cancel by exerting an opposite influence: the extra cost of mail order may be counterbalanced by its convenience