adj

poised

poyzd

adj

Calm, self-possessed, and confident in manner.

"The spokesperson stayed poised despite the barrage of questions."

Ready and about to do something.

"The company is poised to launch its product next month."

"Investors are poised to react the moment rates change."

Balanced or held steady in position.

"The waiter walked past, a full tray poised on one hand."

How to Use Poised

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishEither calm and composed, or on the verge of doing something.

Common pairings

poised to strike poised and ready remain poised

more poised comparative, most poised superlative

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The spokesperson stayed _____ despite the barrage of questions.

raised advised bruised promised baptised apprised despised surprised exercised disguised civilised televised