balk (EN)

verb, noun

verb “balk”

1. to hesitate or show reluctance to do something because it seems risky or challenging
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   She balked at the idea of skydiving because it seemed too risky.
2. (of a horse) to suddenly stop moving forward and refuse to continue
   The horse balked and refused to jump the fence.
3. (formal, in the passive) to be stopped or blocked from achieving something
   Her plans to travel were balked by the sudden storm.
4. (sports) to make a fake movement to trick an opponent
   The pitcher balked, causing the runner on first base to hesitate and miss his chance to steal second.

noun “balk”

1. (baseball) an illegal move by the pitcher that tricks a base runner
   The pitcher was called for a balk when he pretended to throw to first base but didn't.
2. (badminton) a trick move during a serve meant to confuse the opponent
   During the match, Sarah's clever balk made her opponent move the wrong way.
3. (billiards) the part of the table behind the starting line where the game begins
   He carefully placed the cue ball in the balk before taking his first shot.
4. (snooker) the part of the table behind a specific line, known as the baulk line
   He aimed carefully to avoid the balk area and make his shot.