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

The pan de yuca, a gluten-free cheesy roll made from cassava starch is a standout, as is the abundant fresh fruit and fruit juice. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 July 2026

Turn 1 bread slice over onto the other and press cheesy sides together to make a sandwich. — Kristen Miglore, Bon Appetit Magazine, 15 July 2026

Nothing satisfies a crowd of hungry folks quite as swiftly and thoroughly as a cheesy, creamy pasta casserole. — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 12 July 2026

Patriotic, sweet and savory, maximalist and cheesy all in one dish. — Susan Stapleton, Des Moines Register, 9 July 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