balk
verb (used without object)
to stop, as at an obstacle, and refuse to proceed or to do something specified (usually followed byat ).
have balked
-
present perfectof balk.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Netflix has faced competition from YouTube and short-form video, and some analysts have wondered whether viewers have balked at price increases.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 29, 2026
Since then, many reservation holders have balked at the costs, which are estimated to start around $829 and could exceed $1,000, according to Rivian’s website.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 16, 2026
Previous presidents would have balked at having such bedfellows.
From Slate ● Apr. 9, 2026
Bond investors, in theory, should have balked at it all.
From Barron's ● Feb. 17, 2026
He would have balked at letting me go undercover in the Lake sector for days on end, without a pair of strong backups and a team to follow me.
From "Legend" by Marie Lu
