ballasting
|bal-last-ing|
/ˈbæl.əst/
(ballast)
weight that stabilizes
Etymology
'ballast' originates from Middle Dutch or Middle Low German, specifically the word 'ballast', where 'bal' (or 'ball') meant 'ball' and 'last' meant 'load'.
'ballast' changed from Middle Dutch/Low German 'ballast' and Old North French 'balast' into Middle English forms (e.g. 'balast' or 'ballast') and eventually became the modern English word 'ballast'.
Initially, it meant 'a ball-shaped or heavy load' used to add weight; over time it evolved into the current general meaning of 'material or weight used to stabilize ships, structures, vehicles, etc.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act or process of adding ballast; also the material used as ballast (for stability).
Ballasting of the vessel took 2 hours.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 1
present participle of 'ballast' — performing the action of adding ballast (to provide weight or stability).
They are ballasting the barge before it sets off.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/06 06:37