balk

balk is a Noun

Definition:

[1] A ridge of land left unplowed between furrows, or at the end of a field; a piece missed by the plow slipping aside. Bad plowmen made balks of such ground. Fuller.

[2] A great beam, rafter, or timber; esp., the tie-beam of a house. The loft above was called "the balks." Tubs hanging in the balks. Chaucer.

[3] One of the beams connecting the successive supports of a trestle bridge or bateau bridge.

[4] A hindrance or disappointment; a check. A balk to the confidence of the bold undertaker. South.

[5] A sudden and obstinate stop; a failure.

[6] A deceptive gesture of the pitcher, as if to deliver the ball. Balk line (Billiards), a line across a billiard table near one end, marking a limit within which the cue balls are placed in beginning a game; also, a line around the table, parallel to the sides, used in playing a particular game, called the balk line game.