SCALE

n. & v. --n. 1 a (often in pl.) a weighing machine or device (bathroom scales). b (also scale-pan) each of the dishes on a simple scale balance. 2 (the Scales) the zodiacal sign or constellation Libra. --v.tr. (of something weighed) show (a specified weight) in the scales. øpair of scales a simple balance. throw into the scale cause to be a factor in a contest, debate, etc. tip (or turn) the scales 1 (usu. foll. by at) outweigh the opposite scale-pan (at a specified weight); weigh. 2 (of a motive, circumstance, etc.) be decisive. [ME f. ON skÁl bowl f. Gmc]