Balky

/ˈbɔːlki/
adjective

Reluctant to proceed or work, not cooperative.

The balky mule refused to move forward with the heavy load.
Visual representation of "balky" - Reluctant to proceed or work, not cooperative
adjective

Functioning unpredictably or inconsistently.

The old, balky printer only works half the time.
Visual representation of "balky" - Functioning unpredictably or inconsistently

Often appears as...

  • balky machinery
  • balky engine

Usage tips

Technical

adjective

Reluctant to proceed or work, not cooperative.

The balky mule refused to move forward with the heavy load.
Visual representation of "balky" - Reluctant to proceed or work, not cooperative
adjective

Functioning unpredictably or inconsistently.

The old, balky printer only works half the time.
Visual representation of "balky" - Functioning unpredictably or inconsistently

Often appears as...

  • balky machinery
  • balky engine

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "balky"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Resisting Change

Indicates unwillingness to accept new conditions or adapt.

Illustration for Resisting Change
Employees can be balky when new management takes over.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Personification

Used to describe animals or objects as if they have human-like refusal.

Illustration for Personification
I named my balky old car 'The Goat' because it's just as stubborn.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Negative Connotation

Often implies frustration with the person or object referred to.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
Our balky negotiator made the talks more difficult than necessary.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Resisting Change

Indicates unwillingness to accept new conditions or adapt.

Illustration for Resisting Change
Employees can be balky when new management takes over.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Personification

Used to describe animals or objects as if they have human-like refusal.

Illustration for Personification
I named my balky old car 'The Goat' because it's just as stubborn.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Negative Connotation

Often implies frustration with the person or object referred to.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
Our balky negotiator made the talks more difficult than necessary.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Resisting Change

Indicates unwillingness to accept new conditions or adapt.

Illustration for Resisting Change
Employees can be balky when new management takes over.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Personification

Used to describe animals or objects as if they have human-like refusal.

Illustration for Personification
I named my balky old car 'The Goat' because it's just as stubborn.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Negative Connotation

Often implies frustration with the person or object referred to.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
Our balky negotiator made the talks more difficult than necessary.
Visual representation of the word "Balky"

Never forget "Balky"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top