well-balanced
Meaning
containing a mixture of different elements in the correct amounts or to the correct degree.
(of a person) mentally and emotionally stable; sensible.
Structure
Usage
she maintains a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
the report presented a well-balanced view of the advantages and disadvantages.
he is known for his calm and well-balanced approach to crisis management.
Etymology
The compound adjective 'well-balanced' is a relatively Modern English formation, emerging in the 18th century. It combines the Old English adverb 'well', signifying a satisfactory or good condition, with the verb 'balance', derived from the Latin 'bilanx' (having two scales). The literal sense of 'evenly poised' was first applied to physical objects. The semantic logic extends from this physical equilibrium to abstract concepts: a 'well-balanced' diet contains varied elements in proper proportion, and a 'well-balanced' mind possesses emotional stability and sound judgment, metaphorically maintaining an even keel.
Analysis
well (old english, adverb used as an intensifier/qualifier); balance (latin via old french, noun/verb root meaning equilibrium); ed (old english, suffix forming adjectives from verbs or nouns).