balky

/ˈbȯ-kē/

+

adjective

  1. refusing or likely to refuse to proceed, act, or function as directed or expected

a balky mule

contrary perverse restive balky wayward mean inclined to resist authority or control. contrary implies a temperamental unwillingness to accept orders or advice. perverse may imply wrongheaded, determined, or cranky opposition to what is reasonable or normal.