ballast
1. [ noun ] (nautical) any heavy material used to stabilize a ship or airship
Related terms: substance
2. [ noun ] (physics,electricity) a resistor inserted into a circuit to compensate for changes (as those arising from temperature fluctuations)
Synonyms: ballast_resistor barretter
Related terms: resistor
3. [ noun ] (physics) an electrical device for starting and regulating fluorescent and discharge lamps
Synonyms: light_ballast
Related terms: electrical_device
4. [ noun ] an attribute that tends to give stability in character and morals; something that steadies the mind or feelings
Related terms: attribute
5. [ noun ] (geology) coarse gravel laid to form a bed for streets and railroads
Related terms: gravel
6. [ verb ] make steady with a ballast
Related terms: brace stabilize
Similar spelling:   baluster
  ballista
  Balistes
  balusters
  ballistic
  Ballester
  balustrade
  ballistite
  ballistics
  Balistreri
  Balistidae