1. Weights used to balance or offset the weight of something else; objects placed on one side of a scale or lever to equilibrate another side.
Usage: Usually plural; can be singular in technical contexts.
2. In mechanics and engineering, a mass or device designed to counteract or neutralize the effect of another force or weight.
Usage: Technical/engineering usage
3. Figuratively, something that serves to offset or balance an opposing force, influence, or argument.
Usage: Metaphorical usage

Examples

• The crane uses counterweights to lift heavy loads safely.
• The old clock mechanism relied on counterweights to regulate its movement.
• Counterweights on the elevator system prevent it from falling too quickly.
• The architect added counterweights to the design to balance the asymmetrical structure.
• In a seesaw, one child's weight is the counterweight to the other's.
• The engineer installed counterweights in the machinery to reduce vibration.
• Education serves as a counterweight to misinformation in society.