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
• trashy
• unsuitable
• incorrect
• tasteless
• wrong
• 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

And for those who don’t mind a little dose of lactose first thing in the morning, the queso added a creamy, cheesy finish. — Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 24 Oct. 2026

Under his purview, the brand has had to execute a tricky dance—to be sexy without being prurient, playful without being cheesy, desirable without being condescending. — Max Berlinger, Vogue, 19 Oct. 2026

Adding mozzarella and Parmesan creates a salty, extra cheesy base while tomato sauce balances the richness with some acidity. — Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 16 Oct. 2026

But acknowledging a property’s cheesy elements isn’t the same as generating consistent laughs from the situation. — Los Angeles Times, 16 Oct. 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