definition
strict definition
checkpoint
An established site along a route where government authorities inspect goods or monitor people for law enforcement.
A checkpoint is an established site where governmental authorities perform inspections along a particular route. This may include inspections of goods as well as monitoring of persons for purposes of law enforcement.
The inspection can concern goods, people, or both. It does not have to take place at an international border.
The governmental inspection function distinguishes this use from an ordinary gatehouse managing entry to a private or designated area.
Related definitions
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air traffic control
Space for aviation controllers to monitor airport traffic and to direct take-offs and landings. -
bridgehouse
A control station for operating a movable bridge, usually attached or nearby and occupied when needed. -
customs control
A station where officers screen travelers carrying goods across a national border or another regulated customs boundary. -
emigration control
A place where government officers check people leaving a country or a restricted zone within one. -
gatehouse
A small entrance office or station that controls admission, distributes materials, or collects payments. -
immigration control
A place where government officers check people entering a country or a restricted zone within one. -
lifeguard station
A place near a body of water designated for safety surveillance by trained lifeguards. -
rail traffic control
A tower, post, or other operational space where controllers monitor and direct railroad traffic. -
ship guidance
A structure whose position or signals guide vessels through waterways or across bodies of water, especially a lighthouse. -
taxi dispatch station
A facility coordinating and controlling taxi services, at a company base or a field location such as an airport. -
toll booth
A place on a highway or other traffic route where tolls are collected from travelers. -
water traffic control
A tower, post, or operational center where controllers monitor and direct ships or other waterborne traffic.