baulk

• Nom avec plusieurs sens : zone sur une table de billard derrière la ligne d'effet ; quelque chose d'immatériel qui entrave ou retarde une action ou un progrès ; l'une des plusieurs poutres inclinées parallèles soutenant un toit ; ou un refus d'obéir.

A noun with multiple meanings: the area on a billiard table behind the balkline; something immaterial that interferes with or delays action or progress; one of several parallel sloping beams that support a roof; or a refusal to comply.

1. Billiards areaC1formalbritish

   The section of a billiard table located behind the balkline, from which the cue ball is initially played.

   Zone de billard derrière la ligne de bille

   • The player placed the cue ball in the baulk before breaking.
   • He carefully aimed from the baulk area.
   • The rules require the shot to start from the baulk.

   Synonymesbalkkitchen

2. Obstacle or hindranceC1formalbritish

   An intangible barrier that prevents or slows down progress or action.

   Obstacle ou entrave

   • The lack of funding was a major baulk to the project's completion.
   • His fear of failure became a psychological baulk.
   • Bureaucratic delays served as a baulk to innovation.

   Synonymesbarriercheckcurbdeterrenthindranceimpedimentobstaclestumbling block

   Antonymesaidassistanceencouragementhelpincentivestimulussupport

3. Roof support beamC2formalbritish

   One of several parallel, sloping beams that provide structural support for a roof.

   Poutre de soutènement de toit

   • The carpenters installed the baulks to reinforce the roof.
   • Each baulk was carefully measured and cut.
   • The old barn's roof was supported by massive wooden baulks.

   Synonymesrafter

4. Refusal to complyC2formalbritish

   The act of refusing to proceed or comply with a request or demand.

   Refus d'obtempérer

   • His baulk at the new regulations surprised his colleagues.
   • The employee's baulk to follow instructions led to a warning.
   • She showed a clear baulk when asked to work overtime.

   Synonymesdemurdemurralhesitationobjectionprotestrefusalreluctanceresistance

   Antonymesacceptanceagreementcompliance