Check — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

the amount owed at a bar or restaurant or the slip of paper stating the amount

"diners at that temple of gastronomy often look shocked when they receive the check"

a close look at or over someone or something in order to judge condition

"made a careful check of the antique table before buying it"

a record of goods sold or services performed together with the costs due

"request a detailed check from the company before sending any money"

a small sheet of plastic, paper, or paperboard showing that the bearer has a claim to something (as admittance)

"handed over a check for his coat"

something that limits one's freedom of action or choice

"the judiciary is intended to be a check on the executive and legislative branches of government"

an irregular usually narrow break in a surface created by pressure

"the network of fine checks on the surface would indicate that the painting is quite old"

the stopping of a process or activity

"the announcement of bad news gave a sudden check to the celebration"

to be in agreement on every point

"their story of what happened checks with the report of the eyewitness"

to bring (something) to a standstill

"a tree finally checked the skidding car"

to keep from exceeding a desirable degree or level (as of expression)

"check your enthusiasm a bit, and think before you marry someone you just met"