poise in WordNet English dictionary

1. great coolness and composure under strain
   "keep your cool"
   aplomb  assuredness  cool  poise  sang-froid 
   
2. a cgs unit of dynamic viscosity equal to one dyne-second per square centimeter; the viscosity of a fluid in which a force of one dyne per square centimeter maintains a velocity of 1 centimeter per second
   poise 
   
3. a state of being balanced in a stable equilibrium
   poise 
   

1. hold or carry in equilibrium
   poise  balance 
   
2. prepare (oneself) for something unpleasant or difficult
   brace  poise 
   
3. cause to be balanced or suspended
   poise 
   
4. be motionless, in suspension
   "The bird poised for a few moments before it attacked"
   poise