Black

The side with the dark-colored pieces, which replies after White's opening move.

This page is temporarily shown in English. Complete localization will be added in a later stage.

Explanation

Black can name the player, the side, or that side's sixteen pieces. The term identifies the darker set, even when the actual color is brown or another dark shade that contrasts with the lighter pieces.

moves first and Black replies; turns then alternate. In the , Black's pawns occupy the , the horizontal row numbered 7. The other pieces occupy Black's , the row nearest Black, which is rank 8. Black's pawns move toward lower rank numbers as they travel toward rank 1.

Usage and context

With the usual diagram orientation, Black appears at the top. Rotating a board does not change the meaning of the letters and numbers along its edges.

Common confusions

Black pieces and dark squares

A Black piece does not have to remain on a . Side color and square color are independent properties.

View term

Related terms

© __2026__ __MindZug__