Yes, poises is a Scrabble word!

Verb

1. Be motionless, in suspension

2. Prepare (oneself) for something unpleasant or difficult

3. Cause to be balanced or suspended

4. Hold or carry in equilibrium

Noun

1. A cgs unit of dynamic viscosity equal to one dyne-second per square centimeter; the viscosity of a fluid in which a force of one dyne per square centimeter maintains a velocity of 1 centimeter per second

2. A state of being balanced in a stable equilibrium

3. Great coolness and composure under strain