Checkered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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checkered
[ˈtʃɛkərd ]
Definitions
pattern
Having a pattern of squares, usually of two colors such as black and white.
Synonyms
patterned, striped, variegated.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| checkered |
Suitable for describing something with a pattern of squares, often alternating colors. It can also metaphorically describe a history or career with both good and bad moments.
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Examples of usage
- She wore a checkered dress to the party.
- The checkered flag signaled the end of the race.
history
Marked by periods of varying fortune or prosperity; marked by changes in condition.
Synonyms
fluctuating, inconsistent, unstable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| checkered |
This can be used interchangeably with the first 'checkered', meaning the same thing, often indicating a reputation or history that is mixed with both successes and failures.
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| unstable |
Appropriate for describing something that is prone to change or collapse and often has a negative connotation.
|
| inconsistent |
Best used to describe something that lacks regularity or steadiness.
|
| fluctuating |
Important when describing something that changes frequently and unpredictably over time.
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Examples of usage
- The company's checkered past made investors wary.
- His checkered career had its ups and downs.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Fashion
- Checkered patterns have been popular in fashion, especially in the 1960s, with designs seen on shirts and skirts.
- The classic black-and-white checkered pattern is often associated with the racing culture.
- Checkered styles also symbolize a playful and carefree attitude in clothing.
Art
- Many famous artists, like Piet Mondrian, utilized checkered patterns in their artwork to create balance.
- In pop art, checkered patterns are often used to evoke feelings of nostalgia and retro vibes.
- The design is used in modern interior decor to add a dynamic and fun touch.
Sports
- The checkered flag is an iconic symbol in motorsports, signaling the end of the race.
- Many chessboards are also checkered, using an 8x8 grid of alternating colors to define the game spaces.
- Checkered patterns in sports uniforms can create a unique identity for teams.
Cultural Representations
- In some cultures, checkered patterns symbolize duality and balance, such as in yin and yang.
- The multicultural nature of checkered designs can reflect diversity in various traditions worldwide.
- In literature, checkered patterns often represent life's ups and downs, illustrating the complexities of human experience.
Origin of 'checkered'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the word 'checker', which means 'to mark with squares'.
- Originally from the 15th century, it referred to patterns used in textiles and later in tiles.
- The word 'check' also relates to the game of checkers, which uses a checkered board.
The word 'checkered' originated from the noun 'checker', which in turn comes from the Middle English 'checker', meaning a chessboard. The use of 'checkered' to describe a pattern of squares dates back to the 16th century. Over time, it evolved to also describe a history marked by changes or variations. The word has been used in various contexts, from fashion to sports, to describe patterns or conditions marked by contrasts.
See also: check, checkable, checker, checking, checkout, checkpoint, checkpoints, recheck, unchecked.