It's probably derived from the distinction between Real-Time and Turn-Based strategy videogames (eg. Starcraft vs. Heroes of Might and Magic). With chess though, it refers more to the pacing than the mechanics of the game.
Why is it called turn-based?

You take turns in chess. Hence, turn-based. It's not as if you can capture your opponent's queen while he is checking your king. You have to wait your turn.

You take turns in chess. Hence, turn-based. It's not as if you can capture your opponent's queen while he is checking your king. You have to wait your turn.
haha.

You take turns in chess. Hence, turn-based. It's not as if you can capture your opponent's queen while he is checking your king. You have to wait your turn.
But this is true in "Live Chess" as well.
And what about "Live Chess" is not "online"? To me live chcess would describe an in person encounter.

And when the politicians speak of "change", they should make clear whether they mean a change for the better, or a change for the worse.

I would like to see a non turn-based form of chess where the player to move his pieces faster to deliver a mate is a winner. Turnless-blitz we might call it.
[EDIT] Only one hand allowed though. Otherwise it might be a tad too easy.
I understand what's meant by "turn based" chess within the Chess.com community, but I wonder why that term was chosen? After all, what sort of chess isn't turn-based?
If I don't let the other guy make any moves, I almost always win! Even my cat knows not to play me anymore if I don't let him make moves.
--Cystem