Why Is Checkers Called "Checkers"? Origin of the Name

The name "Checkers" derives from the "check" move in chess.

• In chess, a "check" occurs when the king is under direct attack.
• In checkers, pieces move diagonally and the game is won by capturing (or "checking") all opponent pieces.
• The term highlights the core mechanic: threatening and capturing enemy pieces.

In the UK and many Commonwealth countries, the game is called Draughts (pronounced "drafts"), from the verb "to draught" (to move or pull).