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Baulked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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baulked

[bɔːkt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

refusal to proceed

Baulked means to hesitate or be unwilling to accept an idea or undertaking. It can also refer to suddenly stopping or refraining from taking an action, often due to doubt or fear.

Synonyms

hesitated, refused, shied away.

Examples of usage

  • She baulked at the idea of moving to a new city.
  • He baulked when asked to jump off the diving board.
  • The horse baulked at the water jump during the competition.
Context #2 | Verb

prevented from happening

In another context, baulked can mean to thwart or block an action or plan. It conveys a sense of interference that hinders progress.

Synonyms

blocked, stopped, thwarted.

Examples of usage

  • Their plans were baulked by unforeseen circumstances.
  • The deal was baulked at the last minute due to disagreements.
  • Her ambitions were baulked by lack of support.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • People often baulk when faced with high-pressure situations, which can trigger a fight-or-flight response.
  • Fear of failure or rejection can cause individuals to baulk at opportunities, impacting their personal and professional growth.
  • Baulking may serve as a protective mechanism, helping individuals avoid potentially negative outcomes.

Sport

  • In sports like cricket or baseball, players may baulk during critical moments, showing hesitation that can affect the game.
  • A baulk in basketball refers to a player hesitating, often used strategically to throw off the defender.
  • Baulking can affect not only performance but also the psychology of competition, leading to increased pressure.

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's works, characters often baulk at difficult choices, highlighting the human struggle with indecision.
  • Baulking as a theme can illustrate personal conflict, where a character hesitates to act due to fear or uncertainty.
  • Authors use the notion of baulking to add depth to characters, showcasing their vulnerabilities and internal battles.

Origin of 'baulked'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'bealcian', meaning 'to stop short' or 'to be unwilling'.
  • In Middle English, it evolved into 'balken' with a similar meaning, showcasing its long history in expressing hesitation.
  • The spelling changed over time, but the core idea of stopping or refraining has remained consistent.

The word 'baulked' originates from the Old English term 'balca,' which means a beam or timber, symbolizing a barrier or obstruction. Over time, the term evolved in Middle English to mean to stop short or to hesitate, particularly in the context of an obstacle in one's path. The change from 'balca' to 'baulk' reflects the evolution of language as it adapted to convey the nuance of refusal or hesitation. Its usage in various contexts, often relating to physical or metaphorical barriers, demonstrates its flexibility and relevance in modern English. The verb form 'baulk' began to be documented in English literature around the 14th century and has been used in various expressions related to stopping or refraining from an action. Today, it remains a vivid term in both British and American English, along with its alternative spelling 'balk.'

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,323 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.