Definition

Noun: A physiological system, specifically located within the inner ear's vestibular apparatus, that detects the position and movement of the head. This sensory system provides the brain with information necessary to maintain bodily equilibrium, coordination, and spatial orientation.

Usage

The term "sense of balance" is used to describe the specific bodily sense responsible for stability and posture. It is a non-count noun when referring to the general faculty, though it can be modified (e.g., "her sense of balance," "a good sense of balance").

Examples

• Gymnasts must have an excellent sense of balance to perform on the beam.
• The infection affected his inner ear, disrupting his sense of balance and causing dizziness.
• As we age, our sense of balance can sometimes deteriorate.

Advanced Usage

• "to lose one's sense of balance": To temporarily or permanently experience a failure of this sensory system.
  • The sudden movement caused her to lose her sense of balance.
• "to test one's sense of balance": To challenge or evaluate this faculty.
  • Standing on one foot with your eyes closed is a common way to test your sense of balance.

Variants and Related Words

• Balance (n): The more general state of equilibrium or stability, which the "sense of balance" helps to achieve.
  • She kept her balance on the slippery surface.
• Equilibrioception (n): The technical, scientific term for the sense of balance.
• Vestibular sense (n): Another technical term referring specifically to the sensory system in the inner ear.

Synonyms

• Equilibrium
• Sense of equilibrium
• Vestibular sense

Related Concepts (Not Synonyms)

• Proprioception: The sense of the relative position of one's own body parts and strength of effort being employed. Often works in conjunction with the sense of balance.
• Coordination: The ability to use different parts of the body together smoothly and efficiently, which relies on a good sense of balance.

Noun

1. a sensory system located in structures of the inner ear that registers the orientation of the head