PLAY CHECKER Meaning and
Definition
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A play checker, also known as a checkers piece or game piece, is a small game token used in the board game of checkers. Checkers is a classic strategy board game played on a square board divided into a checkerboard pattern of alternating dark and light squares. Each player starts with a set number of play checkers, typically 12, which are placed on specific squares at the beginning of the game.
A play checker is usually round and flat in shape, and is often made of wood or plastic. It is typically of a contrasting color to the squares on the checkerboard, such as red or black, for easy visibility and distinction.
During gameplay, players take turns moving their play checkers diagonally, with the objective of capturing and removing the opponent's checkers from the board. A player can move their checker forward to an adjacent empty square, or perform a capturing move by jumping over the opponent's checker and removing it from the board. The game continues until one player captures all of their opponent's checkers or successfully blocks them from making any further moves.
In summary, a play checker is a small game token used in the board game of checkers, which is placed on the squares of a checkerboard and moved diagonally to strategize and capture the opponent's checkers.
Etymology of PLAY CHECKER
The term "play checker" does not have a specific etymology, as it is a combination of two words: "play" and "checker". However, we can look at the etymology of each individual word.
The word "play" originated from the Old English word "pleg(i)an", which means "to exercise, frolic, or engage in sport". Over time, it developed various meanings, including "to perform in a dramatic or recreational way". The word itself has uncertain origins, but it may be related to the Middle Dutch "pleien", meaning "leap for joy or dance".
"Checker" initially referred to a game, known as "chequers" in British English and "checkers" in American English, which is played on a checkered board with differently colored pieces.
