checkmated
No escape remains
Checkmated describes the losing position in chess where a king is under attack and cannot escape—the game is over.
By extension, someone checkmated has been completely outmaneuvered with no options left: The prosecutor's evidence left the defense checkmated.
The word implies not just defeat but strategic helplessness.
outmaneuvered
Defeated through superior tactics
outplayed · bested · outwitted · foiled · thwarted · overcome · vanquished · crushed · subdued · overpowered
mate
Partner or companion
- stalemateMutual obstruction preventing progress
- endgameConcluding phase of competition
- zugzwangObligatory weakening move situation
mate in two · resignation · pin · skewer · fork · tactics · strategy · sacrifice · blunder · finishing move
checkmatedvictorious
Having achieved triumph
triumphant · winning · checkmating · mating · conquering
checkmatedsafe
Free from peril
unthreatened · secure · protected · unchecked · out of danger
checkmatedin control
Managing with authority
outmaneuvering · dominant · free · empowered · trapping