tongue-in-cheek

Definition of tongue-in-cheeknext

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of tongue-in-cheek Such a proclamation was more than just a tongue-in-cheek play on words. Keith Murphy, VIBE.com, 12 Dec. 2025 O’Connell’s tongue-in-cheek delivery signaled the incident was somewhat lighthearted, and most would agree that O’Connell made the right call in keeping his superstar receiver on the sideline. Michael Gallagher, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Dec. 2025 The collection comes with hosting essentials — a serving platter, serving bowl, dinner plates, coasters, and napkins — all inscribed with tongue-in-cheek barbs the comedians helped come up with. Jillian Sederholm, Entertainment Weekly, 8 Dec. 2025 The evening began with CBS News Sunday Morning correspondent David Pogue performing a tongue-in-cheek song and piano solo honoring the nominees. Mary Lee, CBS News, 4 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tongue-in-cheek
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tongue-in-cheek
Adjective
  • Often, though, the clutter is the point, and you’re smacked with temperamental textures that channel the flippant streak of plunderphonics.
    H.D. Angel, Pitchfork, 7 Jan. 2026
  • The prosecutors were flippant in dismissing the SEC’s questions.
    Ben Wieder, Miami Herald, 23 Dec. 2025
Adjective
  • His posture is authoritative without being imposing, his voice warm without being facetious.
    Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 5 Dec. 2025
  • Powell was, of course, being facetious, as the low-quality videos featured the actor as a teen running and jumping in the street and lip-syncing to the song while wearing a yacht captain’s hat.
    Rachel DeSantis, PEOPLE, 17 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Now, in an ironic twist of a slasher’s blade, Miska returning to the internet horror field, this time as the owner of Bloody Disgusting’s chief competitor, Dread Central.
    Borys Kit, HollywoodReporter, 6 Jan. 2026
  • The memes, commentary, and speculation became a culture unto itself, a loop of ironic posting, information warring, and commentary on commentary—all before his shooter was identified or Kirk was even pronounced dead.
    Charlie Warzel, The Atlantic, 6 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Clark balances serious conversations with wry humor, which is how people often deal with stress.
    Oline H. Cogdill, Sun Sentinel, 8 Jan. 2026
  • But sink into this wry, poignant story and all is forgiven.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 8 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The shootout in the finale felt ripped from another (lesser) series, Sarah Catherine Hook’s monologue as Piper, now wanting to wash Thailand off her, just a bit of a pat cheat (and a more cynical White on display).
    Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 7 Jan. 2026
  • Yes, our political leaders have given some of us reason to be resentful, cynical and even depressed.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 2 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The Aquaphor Lip Repair Balm not only soothes and heals dry lips, but also has SPF 30 sunscreen for additional protection against the sun’s harmful rays.
    Katrina Cossey, Parents, 15 Jan. 2026
  • Keep scrolling to stay warm and dry for as little as $20.
    Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 15 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Yet no moment was as poignant as when Naumov, dressed in a simple white shirt and black slacks, stepped off the ice Thursday night.
    Dave Skretta, Baltimore Sun, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Yet no moment was as poignant as when Naumov, dressed in a simple white shirt and black slacks, stepped off the ice Thursday night.
    Dave Skretta, Hartford Courant, 9 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Tongue-in-cheek.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tongue-in-cheek. Accessed 16 Jan. 2026.

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