Pronunciation: [pˈɔ͡ɪzd] (IPA) 
The word "poised" is spelled with the letters p-o-i-s-e-d. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /pɔɪzd/. The first syllable "poi" is pronounced with a long "o" sound as in the word "boy", followed by a "z" sound in the final syllable "zed". This word is commonly used to describe someone who is calm, composed, and ready for action. It can also mean something is in balance or positioned in a stable manner.
Poised is an adjective that describes a person or object that is in a state of balance, readiness, composure, or self-assurance. It suggests the ability to maintain a calm and composed demeanor, especially in challenging situations.
In terms of physical balance, being poised implies that one is standing or sitting in a stable and upright position, demonstrating control over their body. It can denote gracefulness and elegance in movements or gestures, exhibiting a sense of coordination and control.
Beyond physical attributes, being poised also refers to mental and emotional attitudes. When someone is described as poised, it often implies that they possess a calm and collected mindset, even under pressure or stress. They are well-prepared and ready to deal with challenges and uncertainties, displaying a sense of confidence and self-assurance.
Furthermore, someone who is poised exhibits social and interpersonal skills that reflect tact, diplomacy, and maturity. They have the ability to communicate effectively, maintaining poise in conversations and interactions, even in difficult circumstances.
In summary, being poised encompasses being balanced physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. It suggests a state of readiness and self-assured composure, reflecting grace, confidence, and control, both in external appearances and internal attitudes.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word poised originated from the Old French word poiser, which meant to weigh or to balance. It ultimately derives from the Latin word pensare, meaning to weigh or to ponder. The Latin word pensare is a frequentative form of pendere, meaning to weigh, which is also the root of other words like pendulum. Over time, the meaning of poiser evolved to include the sense of being balanced or steady, resulting in the modern meaning of poised.
