Any heavy substance, as stone, iron, etc., put into the
hold to sink a vessel in the water to such a depth as to prevent
capsizing.

Any heavy matter put into the car of a balloon to give it
steadiness.

Gravel, broken stone, etc., laid in the bed of a railroad
to make it firm and solid.

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

To steady, as a vessel, by putting heavy substances in
the hold.

To fill in, as the bed of a railroad, with gravel,
stone, etc., in order to make it firm and solid.

To keep steady; to steady, morally.