smothered mate

noun

, Chess.

1. checkmate delivered by a knight when the king's mobility is restricted by his own pieces.

smothered mate

noun

1. chess checkmate given by a knight when the king is prevented from moving by surrounding men

Word History and Origins

Origin of smothered mate¹

First recorded in 1815–25

Example Sentences

This is a familiar example of smothered mate, which you will find can be effected by no other Piece than the Knight.

From Project Gutenberg