unbalance

/ʌnˈbæləns/
verb
  1. To cause something to become physically unstable or not level, so that it is likely to fall or tip over.
    • Be careful not to unbalance the ladder when you reach for that box.
    • A sudden gust of wind unbalanced the tightrope walker for a moment.
    • The heavy load on one side unbalanced the cart and it tipped over.
  2. To make someone feel mentally or emotionally disturbed, confused, or not in control.
    • Constant criticism can unbalance a person's sense of self-worth.
    • The shocking news completely unbalanced her, and she couldn't think clearly.
    • The stress of the job began to unbalance him, leading to mood swings.
  3. To upset the equality, fairness, or proper functioning of a system, situation, or relationship.
    • The sudden influx of cash unbalanced the company's budget projections.
    • A single bad trade can unbalance the entire portfolio.
    • Adding too many new members at once could unbalance the committee's voting power.
noun
  1. A state of being physically unstable or not evenly balanced.
    • Engineers checked the wheel for any unbalance that might cause vibration.
    • The unbalance in the load made the truck sway dangerously on the curve.
    • The unbalance of the scales was caused by a small weight on one side.
  2. A lack of equality or fairness in a situation, system, or relationship.
    • She noticed an unbalance in how much work each team member was doing.
    • The trade agreement created an unbalance that favored one country over the other.
    • There is an unbalance between the number of teachers and students in the school.