Definition

A flat board used for playing games like chess and checkers, marked with 64 squares in two different colors that alternate.

Example

We set up the chess pieces on the checkerboard before starting the game.

Conversation

Have you ever played checkers on a checkerboard?

Yeah, I used to love playing it with my grandparents.

I think a checkerboard is such a classic game.

Absolutely! It’s fun and easy to set up.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Checkerboard → It is formed from "check" (from Old French *eschec*, meaning a check or a game of chess) and "board" (from Old English *bord*, meaning a flat surface or plank). The word "checkerboard" refers to a flat surface marked with alternating squares, commonly used for playing games like chess.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'check' from a game and a 'board' as a flat surface — a checkerboard is a flat surface used for games that involve checking.

Visually Confused Words