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

This stand-out casserole comes in hot with cheesy, creamy textures and bright, Tex-Mex flavors. —Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 9 Nov. 2025

This one, with its crispy edges and bubbling, cheesy topping, is impossible for even your most highbrow guests to resist. —Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Nov. 2025

Given my technical limitations and lack of experience, my version ironically sounded even cheesier and more synth driven than Chuck’s original. —Bear McCreary, HollywoodReporter, 7 Nov. 2025

Instead, the film separates itself from the genre’s cheesier elements by inviting audiences on a heartfelt journey that explores the true meaning of love, resilience and personal growth found in unexpected circumstances. —Giana Levy, Variety, 6 Nov. 2025

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