poised

poised [pɔɪzd]

1.[ADJ] If a part of your body is poised, it is completely still but ready to move at any moment.
He studied the keyboard carefully, one finger poised.

2.[ADJ] [v-link ADJ, usu ADJ to-inf, ADJ for n] If someone is poised to do something, they are ready to take action at any moment.
Britain was poised to fly medical staff to the country at short notice
US forces are poised for a massive air, land and sea assault.

3.[ADJ] [usu v-link ADJ] If you are poised, you are calm, dignified, and self-controlled.
Rachel appeared poised and calm.