1. checks and balances - Noun
2. checks and balances - Verb
(politics) A system for multiple branches of government wherein each has some control over the actions of each of the others.
(figuratively) Somebody or something that ensures a system remains safe, honest, etc.
checks and balances
third-person singular simple present indicative of check and balance
The basic premise of the Constitution was a separation of powers and a system of checks and balances because man was perceived as a fallen creature and would always yearn for more power. Roy Moore
[Magna Carta provided] "a system of checks and balances which would accord the monarchy its necessary strength, but would prevent its perversion by a tyrant or a fool.”. Winston Churchill
Our country, if you read the 'Federalist Papers,' is about disagreement. It's about pitting faction against faction, divided government, checks and balances. The hero in American political tradition is the man who stands up to the mob - not the mob itself. Jonah Goldberg
Ours is a government of checks and balances. The Mafia and crooked businessmen make out checks, and the politicians and other compromised officials improve their bank balances. Steve Allen
This used to be a government of checks and balances. Now it's all checks and no balances. Gracie Allen
The checks and balances is a way to prevent government from either devolving into an autocratic tyranny or an autocratic mob mentality. Beau Willimon