WordGarden.iocheekily
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /tʃˈiːkɪli/
US
Meanings
Adverb
in a playfully bold or mildly impudent way
Beyond the definition
To do something "cheekily" means to act in a playful but slightly disrespectful or impertinent way—like a kid who knows they're pushing boundaries but does it with a grin. It's not mean-spirited disrespect; it's more like charmingly naughty behavior. A puppy might cheekily steal your slipper, and a child might cheekily answer back to their parents (though that usually doesn't go over well!). The word suggests a lighthearted boldness, often accompanied by a smile or a twinkle in the eye.
"Cheekily" describes an action done with playful impudence—a bit of sass delivered with charm and without malice. It's more than just being rude; it implies a mischievous spirit and a knowing glance. Think of a character in a story who gets away with teasing because their personality is so endearing.
The word comes from "cheek," referring to the boldness or audacity someone displays, as if they have the nerve to do something unexpected or slightly inappropriate. However, "cheekily" softens that edge. It's not about being deliberately hurtful; it's about a playful defiance of expectations.
You might see someone wink cheekily after telling a small fib, or a comedian deliver a joke with an eyebrow raised cheekily. A child might cheekily refuse to eat their vegetables but do so with such a cute expression that their parents can't help but smile. It's often used to describe behavior that is endearing because it's slightly naughty.
Unlike words like "insolently" or "disrespectfully," "cheekily" carries a lighter tone. It suggests a playful spirit and an awareness of boundaries, even as they are gently nudged. So, if someone acts with a mischievous grin and a touch of defiance, you can safely say they're behaving cheekily.
Examples
- 1
Playful request
He cheekily asked for a second piece of cake.
- 2
Mischievous action
Maya smiled cheekily and took the last cookie.
- 3
Teasing comment
"You can do my homework too, if you like," her brother said cheekily.
- 4
Playful comparison
The article cheekily called the tiny cafe "the city's answer to Paris."
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Comic imitation
She cheekily copied the teacher's serious voice, and even the teacher laughed.
See also
Similar
- impudently
- saucily
- mischievously
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- grin cheekily
- smile cheekily
- reply cheekily
- ask cheekily
Word family
- cheeky
- cheekiness
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- cheekilyadverb