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Webster 1913 Edition

Equilibrium

Eˊqui-lib′ri-um

,
Noun.
;
pl. E.
Equilibriums
(#)
, L.
Equilibria
(#)
.
[L.
aequilibrium
, fr.
aequilibris
in equilibrium, level;
aequus
equal +
libra
balance. See
Equal
, and
Librate
.]
1.
Equality of weight or force; an equipoise or a state of rest produced by the mutual counteraction of two or more forces.
2.
A level position; a just poise or balance in respect to an object, so that it remains firm; equipoise;
as, to preserve the
equilibrium
of the body
.
Health consists in the
equilibrium
between those two powers.
Arbuthnot.
3.
A balancing of the mind between motives or reasons, with consequent indecision and doubt.
Equilibrium valve
(Steam Engine)
,
a balanced valve. See under
Valve
.

Webster 1828 Edition

Equilibrium

EQUILIB'RIUM

,
Noun.
[L.] In mechanics, equipose; equality of weight; the state of the two ends of a lever or balance, when both are charged with equal weight, and they maintain an even or level position, parallel to the horizon.
1.
Equality of powers.
Health consists in the equilibrium between those two powers.
2.
Equal balancing of the mind between motives or reasons; a
state of indifference or of doubt, when the mind is suspended in indecision, between different motives, or the different forces of evidence.

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