Definition

A line on a billiard table that marks where the cue balls are placed for opening shots and divides the table into sections.

Example

The player carefully positioned the cue ball behind the balkline to make the first shot.

Conversation

Have you ever played billiards with the balkline rules?

No, I haven't! What's different about it?

Well, the balkline sets specific areas on the table for opening shots.

That sounds interesting! I might have to try it out sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Balkline → The word originates from the game of billiards, where 'balk' refers to a barrier or obstruction (from Middle English 'balke', meaning beam or barrier) and 'line' (from Old French 'ligne', meaning line). The term 'balkline' refers to a line that indicates where a player cannot strike the ball, creating a barrier in the game.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'barrier' ('balk') that creates a 'line' in the game, helping you remember that a balkline is a line that serves as an obstruction in billiards.

Visually Confused Words