Cheek Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
cheek
[tสiหk ]
Definitions
body part
Either side of the face below the eye.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cheek |
Informal contexts where it implies impudence or boldness.
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| face |
General term for the front part of the head, used in a wide range of contexts from descriptions to expressions of emotions.
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| jawline |
Used specifically to describe the contour or shape of the lower part of the face; often mentioned in terms of attractiveness or health.
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| countenance |
Used in formal or literary contexts to refer to a person's facial expression or the face itself.
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Examples of usage
- He planted a kiss on her cheek.
- She blushed and turned away, hiding her cheeks.
informal
Impudence or effrontery.
Synonyms
audacity, boldness, impertinence.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cheek |
Used informally to describe someone's rude or disrespectful behavior, often with a sense of irony or mild criticism.
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| audacity |
Describes someone's willingness to take bold or risky actions, often with a sense of surprise or admiration for their nerve. It can also have a negative connotation if the action is seen as too bold or disrespectful.
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| impertinence |
A formal term describing behavior that is disrespectful or rude, especially towards someone in a position of authority.
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| boldness |
Refers to a confident, courageous, or fearless attitude towards taking risks and facing challenges, usually seen in a positive light.
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Examples of usage
- She had the cheek to ask for a raise after only a week in the job.
- I can't believe the cheek of that guy!
informal
Speak impudently to.
Synonyms
backchat, disrespect, talk back.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cheek |
Mentioned twice, suggesting the same context provided the first time.
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| talk back |
Informal phrase often used to describe children or subordinates making rude replies to authority figures. This has a negative connotation.
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| disrespect |
A broadly used term indicating a lack of respect. It can be used in formal and informal contexts and generally has a negative connotation.
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| backchat |
Mostly used in informal situations to describe a rude or insolent reply, especially to someone in authority.
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Examples of usage
- He cheeked the teacher and got detention.
- Don't you cheek me like that!
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Anatomy
- The cheeks are made of muscles and fat, which help with facial expressions and chewing food.
- They also help keep your face shaped and protect the teeth and jaws underneath.
- In adults, the amount of fat in the cheeks can change with age, affecting their appearance.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, it's common to greet someone by kissing them on the cheek, showing affection and friendship.
- In some traditions, painting or decorating cheeks (like with makeup) is an important part of rituals and celebrations.
- In certain countries, a pinch on the cheek is a sign of endearment towards children.
Idioms and Expressions
- The phrase 'to have the cheek' means to do something bold or rude, showing a sense of playful defiance.
- When someone is 'cheeky,' it means they are a bit mischievous but not seriously disrespectful.
- The expression 'to turn the other cheek' refers to responding to aggression with peace instead of retaliation.
Art and Portrayal
- In art, cheeks are often highlighted to show emotions, like blush in a portrait indicating shyness or joy.
- Sculptors often pay special attention to the cheeks to convey realism and emotion in their clay or stone work.
- In animated films, exaggerated cheek movements can enhance comedic effects or character emotions.
Medicine
- Certain medical conditions can cause swelling in the cheeks, such as allergies or infections.
- Facial exercises often target the cheek muscles to improve appearance and strength or for speech therapy.
- Cosmetic procedures sometimes involve cheek implants to enhance facial contours and balance.
Origin of 'cheek'
The word 'cheek' originated from the Old English word 'ceace' meaning jaw, jawbone, or jaw muscle. Over time, it evolved to refer specifically to the fleshy part of the human face below the eye. The term 'cheek' has been used in English for centuries to describe both the anatomical feature and as a metaphor for impudence or audacity.
See also: cheekily, cheekiness, cheeky.