from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Checker \Check"er\ (ch[e^]k"[~e]r), v. t. [imp. & p. p.
{Checkered} (ch[e^]k"[~e]rd); p. pr. & vb. n. {Checkering}.]
[From OF. eschequier a chessboard, F. ['e]chiquier. See
{Check}, n., and cf. 3d {Checker}.]
1. To mark with small squares like a checkerboard, as by
crossing stripes of different colors.
[1913 Webster]
2. To variegate or diversify with different qualities,
colors, scenes, or events; esp., to subject to frequent
alternations of prosperity and adversity.
[1913 Webster]
Our minds are, as it were, checkered with truth and
falsehood. --Addison.
[1913 Webster]