cheesy

adjective

ˈchē-zē 

cheesier; cheesiest

1

a

: resembling or suggesting cheese especially in consistency or odor

b

: containing cheese

2

: shabby sense 3c, cheap

a cheesy movie

cheesy motels

cheesiness noun

Synonyms of cheesy

• inappropriate
• tacky
• unsuitable
• trashy
• incorrect
• wrong
• tasteless
• cheap
• unfashionable

Examples of cheesy in a Sentence

cheesy plastic knickknacks lined the fireplace mantel

a cheesy watch that he bought from a sidewalk vendor preying on tourists

Recent Examples on the Web

Táma’s funky, cheesy delight is one of many ice creams across the country that are making the leap from sweet to savory. —Charlie Kolodziej, Bon Appetit Magazine, 23 Jan. 2026

Either way, below you’ll find the best non-cheesy Valentine’s gifts for men with great taste (or the potential to develop it). —Irene Richardson, InStyle, 21 Jan. 2026

Aside from being a tasty twist on Valentine’s Day gifts, this cheesy collection is a delicious Wisconsin marketing tool. —Michele Herrmann, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026

Just like Grandma used to make, this comfort food uses evaporated milk and cheddar to create cheesy goodness. —Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 21 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for cheesy

• breezy
• easy
• queasy
• sleazy
• wheezy
• marchese
• speakeasy
• uneasy

Kids Definition

cheesy

adjective

ˈchē-zē 

cheesier; cheesiest

1

a

: resembling or suggesting cheese

b

: containing cheese

2

: cheap sense 3a

a cheesy movie

cheesiness noun

Medical Definition

cheesy

adjective

ˈchē-zē 

cheesier; cheesiest

: resembling cheese in consistency

cheesy lesions

a cheesy discharge