baulk

Baulk is a term in English with several related senses, ranging from a general verb meaning to hesitate to specific technical terms in archaeology, mining, and sports. In everyday usage, the British English verb to baulk (also balk) means to hesitate or refuse to proceed; to baulk at something is to be unwilling to undertake it.

As a noun, baulk refers to a barrier or obstruction in various disciplines. In archaeology, a baulk is a wall or raised strip of earth left between trenches to separate excavated units and preserve stratigraphic contexts. Baulks allow researchers to study relationships between layers and can be removed later to expose new sections. In mining or construction, a baulk is a wall or block of material left in place within an excavation to support the sides or delineate sections. In cue sports such as snooker and pool, the baulk is the end portion of the table behind the baulk line, including the baulk region used to restart play after certain fouls or break shots.

Spelling and usage notes: In American English, the corresponding verb form is usually balk. The noun form baulk is common in British usage and in technical domains, where precise terminology matters.

Etymology: Baulk derives from the same root as balk, with regional spelling variations over time. The term is used across both general language and specialized vocabulary, reflecting its broad notion of obstruction or hesitation.