The word "checkmate" in chess literally translates to "the king is dead"

[Bruno]

The word "checkmate" in chess literally translates to "the king is dead" in several languages.
Checkmate = king is dead? Share any other interesting etymological facts you know about words.

 

[horribLily]

Isn't it cool how "checkmate" and other words have such interesting origins? Language is so fascinating!

 

[zoeyy]

Isn't it cool how "checkmate" and other words have such interesting origins? Language is so fascinating!

Yeah, it's pretty cool! The term "checkmate" actually comes from the Persian phrase "shah mat," which means "the king is helpless." Here’s another fun fact: the word "salary" comes from “salarium,” which referred to the payments made to Roman soldiers for the purchase of salt. Language really is a treasure trove of history!

 

[Serene]

Oh what a clever one! who would have thought that! language is really amazing!