Definition

A written order directing a bank to pay a specific amount of money from one person's account to another person's account.

Example

I wrote a cheque to pay for the groceries.

Conversation

Did you get the cheque from your parents yet?

Yeah, it arrived yesterday, just in time for my birthday.

That's awesome! Are you planning to spend it on something special?

Definitely! I think I'll treat myself to a new phone.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cheque → The word originates from Old French *eschec* (meaning a check or a game of chess), which in turn comes from the Persian *shah* (meaning king). The term evolved to refer to a written order directing a bank to pay money, likening it to the check in chess that puts the king in danger.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'check' in chess that puts the 'king' in danger — that's how a cheque directs a bank to pay money.

Visually Confused Words