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balky

[baw-kee] / ˈbɔ ki /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Maintaining and fixing a balky machine teaches necessary humility.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 5, 2025

There’s an argument to be made that the feds could believe they have a balky case and want to bloody up Adams in the public eye ahead of a trial.

From Slate • Sep. 12, 2024

During individual drills, he rolled out and threw passes with no outward sign of a balky hamstring.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 19, 2024

They were back at full health with Boogie Ellis’ balky hamstring finally healing.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 18, 2024

There he was immersed in an effort to produce high-energy protons to probe the atomic nucleus, using his balky Tesla coils and Van de Graaff generators.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik