baulk Definition
- 1hesitate or be unwilling to accept an idea or undertaking
- 2a piece of timber laid horizontally as a foundation for a wall or building
Using baulk: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "baulk" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She baulked at the idea of public speaking.
Example
He baulked when he saw the size of the task ahead.
Example
The builders laid the baulks of timber for the foundation of the house.
Example
The baulk of wood was used to support the wall.
baulk Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with baulk
to hesitate or be unwilling to do something because it seems difficult or unpleasant
Example
Many people baulk at the prospect of public speaking.
a line on a billiards table behind which the cue ball must be placed at the start of a shot
Example
He placed the cue ball behind the baulk line and took his shot.
Example
She baulked out of the project halfway through.
Origins of baulk
from Old English 'balca', meaning 'ridge'
Summary: baulk in Brief
The term 'baulk' [bɔːk] can be used as a verb or a noun. As a verb, it means to hesitate or be unwilling to accept an idea or undertaking. As a noun, it refers to a piece of timber laid horizontally as a foundation for a wall or building. The phrase 'baulk at the prospect' denotes hesitation or unwillingness to do something difficult or unpleasant, while 'baulk line' refers to a line on a billiards table. 'Baulk out' means to refuse to participate or leave before finishing.
