checkerboard

noun

check·​er·​board ˈche-kər-ˌbȯrd 

1

: a board used in various games (such as checkers) with usually 64 squares in 2 alternating colors

2

: something that has a pattern or arrangement like a checkerboard

Examples of checkerboard in a Sentence

The fields formed a checkerboard of light and dark squares.

Recent Examples on the Web

The blanket is available in trendy floral, green botanical, lemon, or checkerboard designs and is priced at $17 each. —Joseph Erbentraut, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Apr. 2026

Inspired by the maximalist interior designer Dorothy Draper, the space is decked out in playful wallpaper, bright textiles, and marble checkerboard flooring. —Tori Latham, Robb Report, 20 Apr. 2026

Incorporating a second color for a checkerboard look is another way to add an element of surprise, says Bloch-Neal. —Ashley Chalmers, The Spruce, 18 Apr. 2026

The result is the striking Milk Chocolate Easter Egg, with a checkerboard surface. —Air Mail, 4 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1775, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for checkerboard

• clavichord
• fiberboard
• fibreboard
• fingerboard
• harpsichord
• motherboard
• notochord
• overboard
• overlord
• paperboard
• plasterboard
• shuffleboard

Kids Definition

checkerboard

noun

check·​er·​board -ˌbō(ə)rd 

-ˌbȯ(ə)rd

: a board used in games and marked with 64 squares in two colors