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

Think brussels sprouts with a cheesy, crispy skirt, cornbread studded with sausage and aromatic mix-ins, a frilly cabbage galette, and yes, turkey. — The Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 12 Nov. 2026

Crunchy, creamy, and cheesy, this casserole is a Turkey Day non-negotiable. — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 12 Nov. 2026

The creamy, buttery, cheesy flavor of Alfredo sauce is always a welcome treat. — Linda Gassenheimer, Boston Herald, 11 Nov. 2026

Start with the cheesy French onion soup or New England scallop chowder, then dig into maple bourbon steak tips, Cajun jambalaya, or the Memphis mac and cheese. — Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 11 Nov. 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