Scale (skāl), n. [AS. scāle; perhaps influenced by the kindred Icel. skāl balance, dish, akin also to D. schaal a scale, bowl, shell, G. schale, OHG. scāla, Dan. skaal drinking cup, bowl, dish, and perh. to E. scale of a fish. Cf. Scale of a fish, Skull the brain case.] 1. The dish of a balance; hence, the balance itself; an instrument or machine for weighing; as, to turn the scale; — chiefly used in the plural when applied to the whole instrument or apparatus for weighing. Also used figuratively.
Long time in even scale
The battle hung. Milton.
The scales are turned; her kindness weighs no more
Now than my vows. Waller.
2. pl.(Astron.) The sign or constellation Libra.
Platform scale. See under Platform.