1. to hesitate or refuse to proceed with something
Usage: chiefly British spelling
2. to stop short and refuse to go on
Usage: often used of horses

1. a roughly squared timber beam
Usage: construction
2. an obstacle or hindrance

Examples

• The horse baulked at the high fence.
• She baulked at the idea of working overtime again.
• The committee baulked at approving such a large budget.
• The construction crew used heavy baulks to support the roof.
• His lack of experience proved to be a major baulk in his career.
• The old mare baulked every time she saw the water jump.
• They baulked at paying such high prices for the tickets.