* Noun: This is the most common usage, referring to a state of equilibrium or a steady position.
* Example: "The gymnast maintained her balance on the beam."
* Verb: It can also be used as a verb meaning to make something equal or to put something in a steady position.
* Example: "The accountant balanced the books."
* Adjective: While less common, "balance" can act as an adjective describing something that is in a state of equilibrium.
* Example: "The sculpture had a balance of form and function."
So, the part of speech of "balance" depends on its context within the sentence.