n.; 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. [ 1913 Webster ]
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. [ 1913 Webster ]
Health consists in the equilibrium between those two powers. Arbuthnot. [ 1913 Webster ]
3. A balancing of the mind between motives or reasons, with consequent indecision and doubt. [ 1913 Webster ]
Equilibrium valve (Steam Engine), a balanced valve. See under Valve. [ 1913 Webster ]
(n) (chemistry) the ratio of concentrations when equilibrium is reached in a reversible reaction (when the rate of the forward reaction equals the rate of the reverse reaction)
(n) (chemistry) the principle that (at chemical equilibrium) in a reversible reaction the ratio of the rate of the forward reaction to the rate of the reverse reaction is a constant for that reaction, Syn. law of chemical equilibrium