English

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 a b c d e f g h  
8        8
7        7
6        6
5        5
4        4
3        3
2        2
1        1
 a b c d e f g h  
Black is forced to move their king to the eighth rank, after which white can play Ra8# (rook to a8, checkmate).

Etymology

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The attacking pieces nudge the king one rank or file at a time, like climbing the rungs of a ladder, until reaching the edge of the board.

Pronunciation

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  • Audio (US):(file)

Noun

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ladder mate (plural ladder mates)

  1. (chess) A checkmate pattern in which two major pieces team up to push the enemy king to one side of the board.
    Synonym: lawnmower mate

Translations

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