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

Example Sentences

In such cases, the game is resigned as "drawn by perpetual check."

From Project Gutenberg

Morphy got a perpetual check upon him, and it was the only "draw" in the contest.

From Project Gutenberg

Connecting her with New York and foreign ports, it is a perpetual check to freight discriminations against her by railroads.

From Project Gutenberg