Definition

A weight that is used to balance another weight or force, helping to stabilize or support a system.

Example

The crane used a counterweight to lift heavy loads safely.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how a counterweight works in a pulley system?

Not really, but I guess it must help balance the load.

Exactly! The counterweight makes lifting heavy things much easier.

That sounds really useful, especially for construction.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Counterweight → It is formed from "counter-" (meaning against or opposite) and "weight" (from Old English "wiht", meaning a measure of heaviness). The word "counterweight" refers to a weight that acts against another weight to balance it.

Memory Tip

Think of a weight that acts 'against' something else to keep it balanced — that's what a counterweight does.

Visually Confused Words