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Balked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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balked

[bษ”หkt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

refusing action

Balked means to hesitate or be unwilling to accept an idea or undertaking. It often implies a refusal to proceed with a planned action or a sudden stop in progress due to objections.

Synonyms

draw back, flinch, hesitate, recoil, shy away.

Examples of usage

  • She balked at the idea of moving to a new city.
  • He balked when asked to take on additional responsibilities.
  • The horse balked at jumping over the fence.
  • They balked at the high cost of the renovation.
  • The committee balked at approving the budget.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Sports

  • In baseball, a 'balk' occurs when a pitcher makes an illegal move, often leading to base runners advancing.
  • The term 'balk' in sports suggests a player hesitant to take action, impacting game strategy and performance.

Psychology

  • Balking can relate to fear of failure; the hesitation to move forward often stems from past experiences.
  • Understanding why a person balks can reveal underlying anxiety or self-doubt, affecting personal growth.

Literature

  • In classic literature, characters often balk at moral dilemmas, representing the struggle between right and wrong.
  • The theme of balking can symbolize the conflict between desire and duty, creating tension in a storyline.

Pop Culture

  • Films often feature characters who balk at taking risks, highlighting a relatable human experience.
  • In memes and internet culture, the image of someone 'balking' symbolizes reluctance in everyday situations, making it a humorous reference.

Origin of 'balked'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old Norse word 'bรถlk,' meaning to hinder or block.
  • It later evolved to describe stopping suddenly, especially in a horse that refuses to jump over an obstacle.

The word 'balked' originates from the Old English word 'balca', which means 'a beam or a ridge'. It evolved in Middle English as 'balke', referring to a beam or barrier that prevents someone from crossing. Over time, its meaning expanded to signify any sort of obstruction or refusal to go forward. This evolution reflects a broader theme in language where physical barriers become metaphorical ones, indicating resistance or hesitation in decision-making. The term has anchored itself within English vernacular since the 14th century, often used in various contexts, including literature, sport, and everyday conversation to depict a refusal or hesitation in taking a certain action.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,290, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.