balkline

noun

balk·​line ˈbȯ-ˌklīn How to pronounce balkline (audio)
1
: a line across a billiard table near one end behind which the cue balls are placed in making opening shots
2
a
: one of four lines parallel to the cushions of a billiard table dividing it into nine compartments
b
: a billiards game that sets restrictions in scoring caroms according to these lines

Examples of balkline in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The main carom billiards games are straight rail, balkline and especially three cushion billiards. John Torsiello, courant.com, 13 Nov. 2019

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of balkline was in 1839

Dictionary Entries Near balkline

Cite this Entry

“Balkline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/balkline. Accessed 18 Nov. 2024.

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