Counter-balance is a term that refers to a weight or force that balances or neutralizes the effects of another weight or force. It is often used in mechanical and engineering contexts, but it can also be used in a figurative sense. Some synonyms for counter-balance include offset, equalize, counteract, compensate, and balance out. These words imply the idea of evening out a situation or balancing opposing forces. Other synonyms might include stabilize, negate, or nullify. Each of these words suggests ways to neutralize the effects of something else, whether it be a physical weight or an opposing force in a conflict.