checkered

adjective

check·ered | \ ˈche-kərd

Definition of checkered

: marked by alternation or contrast of fortune the best album of his checkered career— Mark Coleman especially : marked by many problems or failures trying to prevent discovery of his checkered past

Examples of checkered in a Sentence

He has had a checkered career with many ups and downs.

Recent Examples on the Web

But Larson held on for his first checkered flag in the NASCAR Cup Series since 2017. — Pete Iacobelli, The Seattle Times, "NASCAR changes play part in thrilling All-Star Race," 19 May 2019 Performing on stage with her backup singers in tow, Perry wore flowy checkered pants with a belted, ruffled waistline. — Christian Allaire, Vogue, "Katy Perry’s Latest Concert Look Recalls One of Her Hit Singles," 29 July 2018 At the same time that Hari Nef was basking in the sun in a red checkered blazer, Kylie Jenner was rocking that same hue with a pair of hot pants. — Alyssa Hardy, Teen Vogue, "Dua Lipa, Rihanna, and More Incredible Fashion Moments From this Weekend," 11 Mar. 2019 Nwandu’s childhood was difficult and checkered with tragedy. — Kara Brown, Marie Claire, "Our Lady of Shade," 1 Mar. 2019 Ford fell short in the final overtime sprint to the checkered flag on Sunday, perhaps because McDowell made a lane change that separated him from Logano. — Jenna Fryer, The Seattle Times, "McDowell defends Daytona 500 decision not to push Logano," 19 Feb. 2019 Pretty soon the black and white checkered dance floor was packed and the only way to get to the bar was to salsa through the crowd. — Lauren Sanchez, Vogue, "Lin-Manuel Miranda Received a Standing Ovation at Hamilton’s Opening Night in Puerto Rico," 14 Jan. 2019 The master bathroom features a checkered floor and a wall of stone. — Jack Flemming, latimes.com, "Skateboarder Anthony Van Engelen hopes to land a buyer in Hancock Park," 21 June 2018 Carved molding still lines the ceilings and stairwell, and checkered marble floors have been preserved — alongside newly installed Wi-Fi access and large, digital displays in conference rooms. — Cody Boteler, baltimoresun.com, "CCBC to open Hilton Mansion as part of Catonsville Home and Garden Tour," 1 May 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'checkered.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.