Rook: meaning, definitions and examples

chess piece

A rook is a chess piece that can move horizontally or vertically across the board. It is also known as a castle.

castle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rook	Rook, in an informal or slang context, can also mean to cheat or defraud someone, usually in financial matters. This usage typically carries a negative connotation. She felt rooked by the dishonest salesman. He was rooked out of his money in a card game.
castle	Castle may refer to a large building or group of buildings fortified against attack, primarily seen in historical and fantasy contexts. Additionally, 'castle' can also refer to the special move in chess where the king is moved two squares towards a rook, which then moves to the square next to the king. The castle stood on the hill, overlooking the village. He castled his king to ensure its safety.

Examples of usage

• The rook can move any number of squares horizontally or vertically.

• During the endgame, rooks are very powerful pieces.

• She sacrificed her rook to gain a tactical advantage.

bird

A rook is a European bird of the crow family, with black plumage and a bare white face.

Examples of usage

• We saw a rook perched on top of the tree.

• The rook cawed loudly in the morning.

• Rooks are known for their communal nesting habits.