balky
UK: ˈbɔːlki | US: ˈbɔːlki
adj. stubbornly refusing to act or obey; uncooperative
adj. (of a machine or animal) stopping abruptly and refusing to continue
The word "balky" derives from the verb "balk," which originated from Old English "balca" (ridge, beam) and later evolved to mean "to stop short" (as a horse refusing to jump a barrier). The "-y" suffix turns it into an adjective, describing someone or something that exhibits stubborn resistance. The logic traces back to the physical act of balking (stopping abruptly) and extends metaphorically to human or mechanical stubbornness.
The balky child refused to put on his shoes despite his mother's pleas.
The old printer became balky and jammed every few pages.
Despite training, the balky horse still hesitated at the fence.
The committee grew frustrated with the balky negotiations.
A balky engine delayed the flight for over an hour.