Meaning & use

cheeky

adjective·Everyday

Showing a lack of respect in a way that is amusing or endearing rather than truly offensive.

See it in a sentence

The cheeky toddler stuck out her tongue at her grandmother and giggled.

He gave a cheeky grin before admitting he'd eaten the last slice of cake.

A note on using this word

Mainly British informal usage; "cheeky" softens what could sound rude, implying playful charm instead.

Words with a similar meaning

impudentsaucyplayful

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

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