1. past tense of balk; to hesitate or refuse to proceed; to stop short and refuse to go on
Usage: common in British English; American English typically uses 'balked'
2. to prevent or obstruct; to thwart or hinder
Usage: less common than the first sense

Examples

• The horse baulked at the jump and refused to move forward.
• She baulked at the suggestion to work overtime without extra pay.
• He baulked when asked to sign the controversial agreement.
• The project was baulked by unexpected budget cuts.
• They baulked at the high cost of the repairs.
• The runner baulked before the starting line, causing a false start.