verb “check”
infinitive check; he checks; past tense checked; past part. checked; ger. checking
- to look over something carefully
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Before leaving, she checked her bag to make sure she had her keys.
- to make sure a text or translation is accurate, often making corrections
Before submitting her essay, Sarah checked her work thoroughly.
- to make sure information is correct by comparing it with a reliable source
Before submitting your report, check your facts with the information in the library database.
- to mark items on a list that have been chosen, completed, or verified
Before leaving the store, she checked off all the groceries she had put in her cart to ensure she hadn't forgotten anything.
- to control something bad to make sure it doesn't get even worse
The new government will try to check illegal immigration.
- to leave personal items like coats or bags in a designated area (e.g. while visiting a restaurant)
Please check your umbrella at the reception before entering the conference room.
- to leave luggage with an official for check-in (for it to be loaded onto a plane)
Please check your luggage at the hotel's front desk before you head to the airport.
- in sports, to block or disrupt an opponent to gain possession of the ball or puck
During the game, the forward checked his opponent against the boards and stole the ball.
- in poker, to stay in the game without betting more money
Feeling unsure about her hand, Sarah decided to check instead of raising the bet.
- in chess, to make a move that threatens the opponent's king
She checked his king, forcing him into a corner of the chessboard.
noun “check”
singular check, plural checks or uncountable
- a close look or examination
Before leaving the house, he did a quick check to ensure he had his keys and wallet.
- something that restrains or limits
The speed bump acts as a check on drivers going too fast in the school zone.
- in chess, a threat to the king by an opposing piece
When she moved her bishop, she put his king in check, forcing him to respond immediately.
- a mark used to indicate selection or completion
After reviewing her shopping list, Maria put a small check next to each item she had already placed in her cart.
- a bill for services or goods, especially in a restaurant
After finishing our meal, we asked the server for the check so we could pay.
- in contact sports, a move to block or take an opponent out of play
During the game, the defender executed a swift check against the forward, preventing a potential goal.
noun “check”
singular check us, cheque uk, plural checks us, cheques uk or uncountable
- a written order to a bank to pay a specified amount of money
To pay for her new laptop, Sarah handed the cashier a check for $1,200.
interjection “check”
- used to indicate that something has been completed or is ready
Passport? Check. Tickets? Check. Hotel booking? Check. Looks like we're set for our trip!
- used to request the bill in a restaurant
After finishing their meal, Alex waved to the waiter and said, "Check, please!"