Chequerboard

A chequerboard, also spelled checkerboard, is a two-dimensional grid composed of alternating light and dark squares, typically used for playing games like chess and draughts (checkers). The contrasting squares create a distinct pattern, providing a visual framework for strategic movement and gameplay. The standard chequerboard consists of 64 squares, arranged in an 8x8 grid, though variations exist for different games or aesthetic purposes. The chequerboard's design facilitates visual organization, planning, and the understanding of spatial relationships within a game or artistic context. The term is also used metaphorically to describe things with a patterned, contrasting appearance.

Chequerboard meaning with examples

• The antique shop displayed an exquisite chess set atop a finely crafted chequerboard. Its mahogany and maple squares gleamed under the soft lighting, beckoning customers to envision intense battles of strategy. The detailed carving on the chess pieces complemented the chequerboard's classic design, creating a visual harmony that emphasized the game's elegance and tradition.
• In the novel, the city's streets were described as a vibrant chequerboard, with bustling markets, serene parks, and historic buildings creating an interwoven pattern of life. The diverse population and their contrasting lifestyles formed a complex picture. The author used this imagery to capture the city's energy and multifaceted identity, highlighting its juxtapositions and contrasts.
• The artist meticulously painted a chequerboard pattern across the canvas, using bold, contrasting colours to create a striking visual effect. The geometric precision of the pattern drew the viewer's eye. This abstract artwork explored the relationship between order and chaos, playing with perceptions of form and space. The chequerboard served as a foundational element.
• The garden layout resembled a living chequerboard, with patches of brightly coloured flowers alternating with neatly trimmed green hedges. This design offered a visually appealing combination of symmetry and organic beauty. It provided a pleasing backdrop for leisurely strolls, creating a peaceful ambience. The contrasting hues and textures added depth and visual intrigue.