Definition of "overpoise"
overpoise
noun
uncountable
(chiefly figurative) That which outweighs; excessive weight.
Quotations
And I hope, the known avowed use and experience of such great Men, and those in so great a number, is an abundant overpoise to the contrary Affirmation of this, or any other Novel Author whatsoever.
1693, Robert South, chapter 7, in Animadversions upon Dr. Sherlock’s book, entituled A vindication of the holy and ever-blessed Trinity, London: Randal Taylor, pages 222–223
Without swallowing whole all the warnings one could readily hear and read about the spiritual dangers of intellectual arrogance and literary freebooting, there was menace in the overpoise that high education and a rich way of living could confer on a young girl. Unknowingly, she could exceed her own strength.
1964, Flann O’Brien, chapter 6, in The Dalkey Archive, London: Pan Books, published 1976, page 56
verb
third-person singular simple present overpoises, present participle overpoising, simple past and past participle overpoised
(obsolete) To exceed in importance, strength or value.
Quotations
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
(obsolete) To place excessive weight on (someone or something).
Quotations
Whether cripples and mutilated persons, who have lost the greatest part of their thighs, will not sink but float, their lungs being abler to waft up their bodies, which are in others overpoised by the hinder legs, we have not made experiment.
1658, Thomas Browne, Pseudodoxia Epidemica, London: N. Ekins, 3rd edition, Book 4, Chapter 6, p. 168
(obsolete) To throw (someone or something) off balance.
Quotations
[…] 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