poised
UK[pɔɪzd]US[pɔɪzd]
adj
having a calm and confident manner, ready to act or deal with something difficult
adj
balanced and steady in position, or carefully prepared for a particular situation
Etymology
the word 'poised' originates from the middle english verb 'poisen', meaning to weigh or balance. this, in turn, came from the old french 'peser', based on the latin 'pensare', a frequentative of 'pendere', meaning to weigh. the core semantic thread from its latin root is the concept of weighing, balancing, and hanging in equilibrium. this literal sense of physical balance evolved metaphorically into the modern meanings of being mentally or physically composed, prepared, and in a state of graceful readiness.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form derived from the past participle of the verb 'poise'. it is not productively formed from separable modern english morphemes.
Examples
she remained poised and confident throughout the challenging interview.
the dancer was poised on one foot, a picture of perfect balance.
the company is poised to launch its new product next month.