Definition

The condition of being unwilling to proceed or act, often causing delays or difficulties.

Example

The balkiness of the horse made it hard for the rider to control it during the race.

Conversation

Have you noticed any balkiness in the new software update?

Yeah, it seems to freeze up at random times.

I wonder if they’ll fix that balkiness in the next version.

I hope so; it can be really frustrating to deal with.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Balkiness → It is formed from "balk" (from Old English *balca*, meaning to hinder or obstruct) and "-iness" (meaning the quality of). The word "balkiness" refers to the quality of being obstructive or hindering progress.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'balk' meaning to hinder, and remember that 'balkiness' describes the quality of being obstructive.

Visually Confused Words