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 of cheeky

• wise
• bold
• sassy
• saucy
• impudent
• fresh
• brazen
• cocky
• insolent
• blunt
• brassy
• defiant
• cute
• audacious
• brash
• impertinent
• nervy
• assertive
• cocksure

Examples of cheeky in a Sentence

a cheeky comment about something that was none of her business

Recent Examples on the Web

Kardashian's coquettish bow headband was a surprisingly traditional and festive look for the All's Fair star, who generally prefers a sleeker hairstyle or long, loose waves versus sweet or cheeky accessories. —Kara Nesvig, Allure, 4 Dec. 2025

Ahead of the episode, Harry and Colbert, 61, made a cheeky social media video set to a viral Great British Bake Off sound bite. —Charna Flam, PEOPLE, 4 Dec. 2025

Her latest album also included several songs with cheeky innuendos. —Lauryn Overhultz, FOXNews.com, 4 Dec. 2025

Amongst clouds and the Palace logo, the cartoons merge the cheeky, bold approach skate brand across three colorways including chestnut, yellow, and black. —Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 1 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

see cheek entry 1

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cheeky

• creaky
• freaky
• leaky
• sneaky
• squeaky
• streaky

Kids Definition

cheeky

adjective

ˈchē-kē 

cheekier; cheekiest

informal : boldly rude or disrespectful in usually a playful way

cheekiness noun