n. 25B6; noun
poise and good deportment : GRACE, gracefulness, elegance, balance, control.
in spite of the setback she retained her poise : COMPOSURE, equanimity, self-possession, aplomb, presence of mind, self-assurance, self-control, nerve, calm, sangfroid, dignity; informal cool, unflappability.
25B6; verb
she was poised on one foot : BALANCE, hold (oneself) steady, be suspended, remain motionless, hang, hover.
he was poised for action : PREPARE ONESELF, ready oneself, brace oneself, gear oneself up, stand by.