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 adverb
cheekiness noun

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.
From classic, no-frills options ideal with cheeky monograms to elevated designer takes that instantly upgrade any look, find the perfect canvas tote for your style needs ahead. Footwear News, 3 July 2025 In a cheeky Valentine's Day message on X, Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows doubled down on his commitment to pass school voucher legislation in the state, promising President Donald Trump adviser Elon Musk that the lower chamber will do its part to deliver public money for private schooling. Alex Driggars, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 Internet users can't get enough of this cheeky cat, as many of the videos have gone viral with millions of views. Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 July 2025 For the occasion, the actress wore a cheeky two-piece swimsuit that consisted of a hot pink bikini top and a matching cheeky bottom that showed off her toned figure. Starr Bowenbank, People.com, 30 June 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cheeky.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cheeky. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

cheeky

adjective
cheekier; cheekiest
informal : boldly rude or disrespectful in usually a playful way
cheekiness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on cheeky

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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