Definition

Having a pattern of squares or rectangles, often in contrasting colors, or characterized by significant changes in fortune or circumstances.

Example

She wore a checkered dress that reminded everyone of a picnic blanket.

Conversation

I just bought a new shirt with a checkered pattern.

Oh nice! I love checkered designs; they look really stylish.

Yeah, I thought it would be great for casual outings.

Definitely! You'll look sharp wearing it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Checkered → It is formed from "check" (from Old French *eschec*, meaning a pattern or a game of chess) and "-ered" (a suffix indicating a state or condition). The word "checkered" describes something that has a pattern of alternating squares, reminiscent of a chessboard.

Memory Tip

Think of a pattern that resembles a chessboard, where the squares alternate — that's what checkered means.

Visually Confused Words