checkpoint

American  

[chek-point] / ˈtʃɛkˌpɔɪnt /

noun

1. a place along a road, border, etc., where travelers are stopped for inspection.

2. a point or item, especially in a procedure, for notation, inspection, or confirmation.

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checkpoint British  

/ ˈtʃɛkˌpɔɪnt /

noun

1. a place, as at a frontier or in a motor rally, where vehicles or travellers are stopped for official identification, inspection, etc

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Etymology

Origin of checkpoint

First recorded in 1935–40; check ¹ + point

Example Sentences

The latest satellite imagery shows the kilometre-long bridge alongside several new access roads, a border checkpoint, support infrastructure and parking facilities.

From BBC • May 6, 2026

Although Romero León was able to board the bus on April 11, he said he was almost immediately pulled off by Mexican authorities at a checkpoint and placed into a detention center.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

"Because that checkpoint worked, there was no one who was injured," Pirro said.

From Barron's • Apr. 26, 2026

He picked up speed as he ran at a Secret Service security checkpoint.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 26, 2026

People crossing the border checkpoint on foot or on a bike are less likely to be inspected.

From "Enrique's Journey" by Sonia Nazario