cheeky

adjective

ˈchē-kē How to pronounce cheeky (audio)
cheekier; cheekiest
Synonyms of cheeky
informal
: boldly rude, impudent, or disrespectful in usually a playful or appealing way
a cheeky grin
… old-timers who still look like they could deck you if you get too cheeky.—Shaun Assael
cheekily
ˈchē-kə-lē How to pronounce cheeky (audio)
adverb
cheekiness
ˈchē-kē-nəs How to pronounce cheeky (audio)
noun

Synonyms of cheeky

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Examples of cheeky in a Sentence

a cheeky comment about something that was none of her business
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In a video posted to Jessie's Instagram, the former NFL star made some cheeky puns to promote her new cookbook. — Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 17 Oct. 2026 The Heeler family home is recreated in uncanny detail—from Bandit’s armchair to the backyard barbecue—with interactive games led by a cheeky garden gnome named Rhonda, music, and secret nooks that delight kids and grown-ups. — Alli Forde, Travel + Leisure, 17 Oct. 2026 The cheeky phrase that inspired the custom ’fit comes from one of Colman’s lines in the film. — Kenneal Patterson, Vanity Fair, 14 Oct. 2026 Republican Steve Hilton is leaning on cheeky ads and voter discontent in a long-shot campaign for governor. — Deputy Managing Editor, Los Angeles Times, 12 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cheeky

Word History

Etymology

see cheek entry 1

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cheeky was in 1838

Rhymes for cheeky

See All Rhymes for cheeky

Browse Nearby Words

cheek tooth
cheeky
cheeny
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Cite this Entry

“Cheeky.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cheeky. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cheeky

adjective
ˈchē-kē How to pronounce cheeky (audio)
cheekier; cheekiest
informal : boldly rude or disrespectful in usually a playful way
cheekiness noun
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