'Balk line' definitions:

Definition of 'Balk line'

From: GCIDE
  • Balk \Balk\ (b[add]k), n. [AS. balca beam, ridge; akin to Icel. b[=a]lkr partition, bj[=a]lki beam, OS. balko, G. balken; cf. Gael. balc ridge of earth between two furrows. Cf. Balcony, Balk, v. t., 3d Bulk.]
  • 1. A ridge of land left unplowed between furrows, or at the end of a field; a piece missed by the plow slipping aside. [1913 Webster]
  • Bad plowmen made balks of such ground. --Fuller. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. A great beam, rafter, or timber; esp., the tie-beam of a house. The loft above was called "the balks." [1913 Webster]
  • Tubs hanging in the balks. --Chaucer. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. (Mil.) One of the beams connecting the successive supports of a trestle bridge or bateau bridge. [1913 Webster]
  • 4. A hindrance or disappointment; a check. [1913 Webster]
  • A balk to the confidence of the bold undertaker. --South. [1913 Webster]
  • 5. A sudden and obstinate stop; a failure. [1913 Webster]
  • 6. (Baseball) A deceptive gesture of the pitcher, as if to deliver the ball. It is illegal and is penalized by allowing the runners on base to advance one base. [1913 Webster]
  • 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. [1913 Webster]