Background for ballast

ballast

/ˈbæl.əst/

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noun

Heavy material that is placed in the hold of a ship (or in the gondola of a balloon), to provide stability.

Examples :

"The ship used heavy stones as ballast to keep it stable in the water. "

nautical sailing physics material

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noun

Anything that steadies emotion or the mind.

Examples :

"During the stressful exam, her deep breathing served as a ballast, helping her to stay calm and focused. "

mind emotion character

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noun

Coarse gravel or similar material laid to form a bed for roads or railroads, or in making concrete.

Examples :

"The construction workers poured a thick layer of ballast before laying the railroad tracks. "

material building

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noun

A material, such as aggregate or precast concrete pavers, which employs its mass and the force of gravity to hold single-ply roof membranes in place.

Examples :

"The construction crew used heavy ballast to keep the new roof from blowing away in the wind. "

material building architecture

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noun

Device used for stabilizing current in an electric circuit (e.g. in a tube lamp supply circuit)

Examples :

"The flickering fluorescent light needed a new ballast to regulate the electrical current. "

electronics device electric technology utility

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noun

That which gives, or helps to maintain, uprightness, steadiness, and security.

Examples :

"Having a strong support system of family and friends can act as ballast in life, helping you stay steady during difficult times. "

nautical sailing physics

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verb

To stabilize or load a ship with ballast.

Examples :

"The crew had to ballast the ship with extra water to keep it steady in the strong wind. "

nautical sailing vehicle

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verb

To lay ballast on the bed of a railroad track.

Examples :

"The construction crew will ballast the new section of track tomorrow, ensuring a stable foundation for the trains. "

technical building industry material