The Collaborative International Dictionary
chalk line \chalk" line`\ (ch[add]k" l[imac]n`), n.
a string impregnated with powdered chalk, used in construction to mark a straight line on a surface, such as a wall. The string is held taut on the surface between the two end points of the line to be made, the center of the line is drawn away from the surface, and the string is released and snapped against the surface, leaving a line of chalk in the desired location.
the line of chalk on a surface left by a chalk line[1].
Wiktionary
n. A line made on a surface by snapping a taut string or cord dusted with colored chalk.
WordNet
Wikipedia
A chalk line or chalk box is a tool for marking long, straight lines on relatively flat surfaces, much farther than is practical by hand or with a straightedge.
It is an important tool in construction and carpentry, the working of timber in a rough and unplaned state, as it does not require the timber to have a straight or squared edge formed onto it beforehand.
Usage examples of "chalk line".
He stayed there somehow or other while Comus made eight accurate and agonisingly effective shots at the chalk line.
I had him follow me around the building with the end of the chalk line in hand.
I made it a double, and then I turned and walked to the chalk line on the floor, faced the merrily crackling fireplace from a distance of twenty feet.
Tommy Janssen called out, and the Drink made way for him at the chalk line.
All you need to know going in is that Callahan's bar has a fireplace, and a chalk line on the floor about ten meters away, and that patrons who are willing to give up the change from their drink are welcome to toe that line, propose a toast, and eighty-six their empty glass in that fireplace.
Roland said, pointing to 1, and then drew a short chalk line to 2.
He left his chair, walked to the chalk line, and finished his beer.
Most bucks make their squaws walk a chalk line, but not Boat Face.
With the toe of one boot he kicked at the nearer side of Ian's circle, erasing the chalk line.
A burly trooper in heavy body armor took a step forward, over the chalk line.
He placed a tattered bill on the bar, took the shot of bourbon which Callahan handed him silently, and walked to the chalk line.