n.
Pronunciation: ' chek
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English chek, from Anglo-French eschec, from Arabic sh ā h, from Persian, literally, king; akin to Greek ktasthai to acquire, Sanskrit k ș atra dominion
Date: 15th century
1 : exposure of a chess king to an attack from which he must be protected or moved to safety
2 a : a sudden stoppage of a forward course or progress : ARREST b : a checking of an opposing player (as in ice hockey)
3 : a sudden pause or break in a progression
4 archaic : REPRIMAND , REBUKE
5 : one that arrests, limits, or restrains : RESTRAINT <against all check s, rebukes, and manners, I must advance ― Shakespeare>
6 a : a standard for testing and evaluation : CRITERION b : EXAMINATION <a quick check of the engine> c : INSPECTION , INVESTIGATION <a loyalty check on government employees> d : the act of testing or verifying also : the sample or unit used for testing or verifying
7 : a written order directing a bank to pay money as instructed : DRAFT
8 a : a ticket or token showing ownership or identity or indicating payment made <a baggage check > b : a counter in various games c : a slip indicating the amount due : BILL
9 [Middle English chek, short for cheker checker] a : a pattern in squares that resembles a checkerboard b : a fabric woven or printed with such a design
10 : a mark typically placed beside an item to show it has been noted, examined, or verified
11 : CRACK , BREAK
– check · less \ ' che-kl ə s \ adjective
– in check : under restraint or control <trying to keep his emotions in check >