Emily Dickinson Lexicon

poise (-d, poising), v. [Late ME < OFr < L. penděre, weigh'.] (webplay: balance, hold, strength).

1. Balance; steady; perch.
2. Equalize; make even; balance the scales; bring to a state of equilibrium.
3. Pause; wait; hover; stop briefly.
4. Prepare; make ready.