How to Pronounce Balk

To pronounce "balk", say BALK — one syllable, IPA /bɔːk/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

balk

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Accent

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1

Syllable

4

Letters

/bɔːk/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “balk”

"balk" is a single-syllable word — say it in one clean beat. It rhymes with gawk and stock, if that helps it stick.

What does balk mean?

noun

  1. An uncultivated ridge formed in the open field system, caused by the action of ploughing.
  2. The wall of earth at the edge of an excavation.

verb

  1. To pass over or by.
  2. To omit, miss or overlook by chance.

Synonyms

avoidrefuseshirkshunbafflefoilfrustratethwart

Words that rhyme with balk

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

gawkstockcockstalkshockblocksquawkmockbaulkknockhawkflock

Related words

rafterbaulkjibresistflinchthwartretreatland

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "balk"?▾

"Balk" has one syllable.

What is the IPA transcription of "balk"?▾

The IPA transcription of "balk" is /bɔːk/.

What does "balk" mean?▾

Balk: An uncultivated ridge formed in the open field system, caused by the action of ploughing.

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