Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Checker \Check"er\ (ch[e^]k"[~e]r), v. t. [imp. & p. p.
   {Checkered} (-[~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.

   2. To variegate or diversify with different qualities,
      colors, scenes, or events; esp., to subject to frequent
      alternations of prosperity and adversity.

            Our minds are, as it were, checkered with truth and
            falsehood.                            --Addison.