cheeky

adjective

ˈchē-kē 

cheekier; cheekiest

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 

adverb

cheekiness

ˈchē-kē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• arch
• audacious
• bold
• bold-faced
• brash
• brassbound
• brassy
• brazen
• brazen-faced
• cocksure
• cocky
• fresh
• impertinent
• impudent
• insolent
• nervy
• sassy
• saucy
• wise

Examples of cheeky in a Sentence

a cheeky comment about something that was none of her business

Recent Examples on the Web

Bar Lina Hidden underneath the Lina Stores deli on Brewer Street, Bar Lina is a cheeky spot to grab cocktails after indulging in a fresh plate of pasta. —Rachel Dube, Forbes, 25 Sep. 2024

Mar is a rising star with a bright future ahead, blending legacy with her cheeky artistic flair. —Ingrid Fajardo, Billboard, 25 Sep. 2024

Chavez even gave fans a cheeky look at another very revealing outfit — this one with a fringe belt layered over hot pants. —Hedy Phillips, Peoplemag, 24 Sep. 2024

This neon sign manages to combine both of those things for a cheeky lil bit of decor for your home. —Savannah Smith, Rolling Stone, 23 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

see cheek entry 1

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

cheeky

adjective

ˈchē-kē 

cheekier; cheekiest

informal : boldly rude or disrespectful in usually a playful way

cheekiness noun