perpetual check

noun

Chess.

1. a continuing series of checks resulting in a drawn game because they cannot be halted or evaded without resulting in checkmate or a serious disadvantage.

2. the situation in which this occurs.

perpetual check

noun

1. chess a consecutive series of checks that the checked player cannot avoid, leading to a drawn game

Word History and Origins

Origin of perpetual check¹

First recorded in 1810–20