equilibrium

 
Pronunciation: /ˌiːkwɪˈlɪbrɪəm, ˌɛkwɪ-/

noun (plural equilibria /-rɪə/)

[mass noun]
  • a state in which opposing forces or influences are balanced: the task is the maintenance of social equilibrium
  • a state of physical balance: I stumbled over a rock and recovered my equilibrium
  • a calm state of mind: his intensity could unsettle his equilibrium
  • Chemistry a state in which a process and its reverse are occurring at equal rates so that no overall change is taking place: ice is in equilibrium with water
  • Economics a situation in which supply and demand are matched and prices stable: the market is in equilibrium [as modifier]: the equilibrium level of income

Derivatives

equilibrial

adjective

Origin:

early 17th century (in the sense 'well-balanced state of mind'): from Latin aequilibrium, from aequi- 'equal'+ libra 'balance'