overpoises

Verb

overpoise (third-person singular simple present overpoises, present participle overpoising, simple past and past participle overpoised)

1. (obsolete) To exceed in importance, strength or value.
   • But sith it pleased your maiestie, with so indifferent balance to ponder both our tales, I am throughlie persuaded, that my loiall innocencie shall be able, to ouerpoise his forged treacherie.1587, Raphael Holinshed et al., Holinshed's Chronicles, London: John Harrison et al., Volume 2, “A Treatise conteining a plaine and perfect description of Ireland,” p. 36

   Synonyms:

   outweigh

2. (obsolete) To place excessive weight on (someone or something).
   • Tis time [f]or me to stirre when such young boyes,
     Shal haue their weake neckes ouer poisd with crownes1598, George Chapman, The Blind Beggar of Alexandria, London: William Jones

   Synonyms:

   overburden

3. (obsolete) To throw (someone or something) off balance.
   • […] the Stone in my Fathers Body was so immense, that I’ve wonder’d it did not bunch up behind, and make him have a Hump-back, or at least overpoise him in walking, and drag him backward with its incredible weight.1691, John Dunton, chapter 6, in A Voyage Round the World, London: Richard Newcome, page 122

   Synonyms:

   overbalance

See all 4 meanings of overpoise