balky

adjective

ˈbȯ-kē

sometimes ˈbȯl-

balkier; balkiest

Synonyms of balky next

: refusing or likely to refuse to proceed, act, or function as directed or expected

a balky mule

a balky engine

balkiness noun

Choose the Right Synonym for balky

contrary, perverse, restive, balky, wayward mean inclined to resist authority or control.

contrary implies a temperamental unwillingness to accept orders or advice.

a contrary child

perverse may imply wrongheaded, determined, or cranky opposition to what is reasonable or normal.

a perverse, intractable critic

restive suggests unwillingness or inability to submit to discipline or follow orders.

tired soldiers growing restive

balky suggests a refusing to proceed in a desired direction or course of action.

a balky witness

wayward suggests strong-willed capriciousness and irregularity in behavior.

a school for wayward youths

Examples of balky in a Sentence

a balky toddler who only seemed to know the word “no” when told to do something

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

White is being backed up by Cobie Durant, who also has a balky hamstring. —

Jay Paris, Forbes, 7 Sep. 2024 But the hi-tech equipment proved balky in its first live test. —

Bruce Haring, Deadline, 16 Aug. 2024 The original May 6 launch was scuttled hours before takeoff due to a balky rocket valve. —

Laurence Darmiento, Los Angeles Times, 22 May 2024 Eventually, all the balky presses got going, and the Chicago Tribune completed its final Freedom Center run at 12:48 a.m. on Sunday. —

Robert Channick, Chicago Tribune, 19 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for balky