1. to refuse to proceed or act; to hesitate or be unwilling
2. to stop short and refuse to go on
Usage: often used of horses or other animals
3. to commit a balk in baseball
Usage: baseball

1. an illegal motion by a pitcher in baseball that allows baserunners to advance
Usage: baseball
2. a hindrance or obstacle

Examples

• The horse balked at jumping over the fence.
• She balked at the idea of working overtime without pay.
• The pitcher was called for a balk when he flinched during his windup.
• Many voters balk at higher taxes.
• The committee balked at approving the expensive proposal.
• His sudden movement was ruled a balk by the umpire.
• The steep price proved to be a balk to potential buyers.