balk

Meanings

• the area on a billiard table behind the balkline
  • "a player with ball in hand must play from the balk"
• something immaterial that interferes with or delays action or progress
• one of several parallel sloping beams that support a roof
• an illegal pitching motion while runners are on base
• refuse to comply

Synonyms

baulk, check, deterrent, handicap, hinderance, hindrance, impediment, jib, rafter, resist