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

Photos and videos captured our cheesy adventure, but the memory of enjoying such a unique culinary and cultural experience with my favorite people in the world will be forever burned into my mind. — Claudia Laroye, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Nov. 2026

Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Give classic baked spaghetti the day off and opt for this cheesy chicken version for the potluck. — Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 29 Oct. 2026

Saturday’s offerings include the ribs plate and the signature platter called the Deep Cut, while Sunday’s menu includes a pork belly plate with cheesy grits and slaw and a smoked, griddled and cheesed burger. — Sam Flemming, AJC.com, 25 Oct. 2026

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

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