Emily Dickinson Lexicon

BALK, n. [bauk; Sax. balc; W. balc, a ridge between furrows; balc, prominent, swelling, proud; said to be from bal, a prominence; bala, eruption; balau, to shoot, spring or drive out.]

1. A ridge of land, left unplowed, between furrows, or at the end of a field.
2. A great beam, or rafter. [G. balken; D. balk.]
3. Any thing left untouched, like a ridge in plowing. – Spenser.
4. A frustration; disappointment. – South.