Synonyms

checklist

American

[chek-list] / ˈtʃɛkˌlɪst /

noun

Also check list a list of items, as names or tasks, for comparison, verification, or other checking purposes.

verb (used with object)

to enter (an item) on a checklist.

verb (used without object)

to enter items on a checklist.

Etymology

Origin of checklist

An Americanism dating back to 1850–55; check ¹ + list ¹

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I requested a checklist that looked like a mess even after Gemini proudly proclaimed, “OK, I’ve taken care of that for you.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

A portion of the pieces in the exhibition will be available for purchase, with a detailed checklist to come.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

The government subsequently implemented new security measures including a "clear checklist" for prison governors to follow when releasing prisoners, and commissioned Dame Lynne's review to prevent further incidents.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

MarketWatch retirement reporter Jessica Hall has a helpful retirement-checkup checklist that spells out these additional contributions, and Fix My Portfolio columnist Beth Pinsker dug into the IRS rules around catch-ups for high earners.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 7, 2026

Then she gives us a checklist of what to do: strip and make the beds, vacuum, clean the bathroom, throw away the garbage.

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023