equilibrium

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e·qui·lib·ri·um / ˌēkwəˈlibrēəm; ˌekwə-/ • n. (pl. -lib·ri·a / -ˈlibrēə/ ) a state in which opposing forces or influences are balanced: 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. ∎  Chem. 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. ∎  Econ. a situation in which supply and demand are matched and prices stable.DERIVATIVES: e·qui·lib·ri·al / -ˈlibrēəl/ adj.

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