balk

¹balk

noun \ˈbȯk sometimes ˈbȯlk\

Definition of BALK

1

: a ridge of land left unplowed as a dividing line or through carelessness

2

: beam, rafter

3

: hindrance, check

4

a : the space behind the balkline on a billiard table b : any of the outside divisions made by the balklines

5

: failure of a player to complete a motion; especially : an illegal motion of the pitcher in baseball while in position

Examples of BALK

1. <the extravagant centerpiece proved to be a balk to the flow of conversation>

Origin of BALK

Middle English balke, from Old English balca; akin to Old High German balko beam, Latin fulcire to prop, Greek phalanx log, phalanx

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to BALK

Synonyms: encumbrance, bar, block, chain, clog, cramp, crimp, deterrent, drag, embarrassment, fetter, handicap, hindrance, holdback, hurdle, impediment, inhibition, interference, let, manacle, obstacle, obstruction, shackles, stop, stumbling block, trammel

Related Words: catch, hitch, rub, snag; barrier, blockade, blockage, brick wall, stone wall; arrest, bit, brake, check, constraint, curb, hobble, rein, restraint; embargo, stoppage; delay, holdup, stall; burden, cumber, load; danger, hazard, peril, reef; adversity, difficulty, disadvantage, drawback, hardship

Near Antonyms: catalyst, goad, impetus, incentive, spur, stimulant, stimulus; advantage, break, edge; aid, assistance, benefit, boost, handmaiden (also handmaid), help

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