adj B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

cheeky

CHEE-kee

Cheeky (adj) means Disrespectful or bold in a way that's often seen as playful or amusing rather than truly rude. Example: “The kid gave a cheeky grin before running off with the last cookie.”

adj

Disrespectful or bold in a way that's often seen as playful or amusing rather than truly rude.

"The kid gave a cheeky grin before running off with the last cookie."

"That was a cheeky comment to make to your boss."

Informally, describing something indulgent or a bit naughty, often a treat.

"We stopped for a cheeky pint on the way home."

How to use cheeky

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishBold or sassy in a way that's more charming than annoying.

When to use it

Very common in British English; less used in American English, where "sassy" or "smart-mouthed" is more typical.

Common pairings

cheeky grin cheeky remark a cheeky pint

Word forms

cheekier comparative, cheekiest superlative

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The kid gave a _____ grin before running off with the last cookie.

Etymology

Formed from cheek (in the sense of impudence) plus the adjective-forming suffix -y.

Synonyms

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sassy saucy insolent audacious bold get wise bold-faced bold as brass brassy brazen brazen-faced chutzpadik

Antonyms

polite respectful restrained sycophantic shy meek

Related words

forward civil active throw proud brave moderate rude

Rhymes for cheeky

geeky

See all rhymes for cheeky →

Frequently asked questions

What does “cheeky” mean?

The word “cheeky” means disrespectful or bold in a way that's often seen as playful or amusing rather than truly rude. In plain terms, bold or sassy in a way that's more charming than annoying.

How do you pronounce “cheeky”?

“Cheeky” is pronounced CHEE-kee (/ˈt͡ʃiːki/ in IPA).

How do you use “cheeky” in a sentence?

Here is “cheeky” used in a sentence: “The kid gave a cheeky grin before running off with the last cookie.”

What is another word for “cheeky”?

Words with a similar meaning to “cheeky” include sassy, saucy, insolent, audacious, bold and get wise.

What is the opposite of “cheeky”?

The opposite of “cheeky” — its antonyms — are polite, respectful, restrained, sycophantic and shy.

What part of speech is “cheeky”?

“Cheeky” is an adjective.

Is “cheeky” a common word?

“Cheeky” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

How many meanings does “cheeky” have?

“Cheeky” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: disrespectful or bold in a way that's often seen as playful or amusing rather than truly rude.

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