Cheekiest: meaning, definitions and examples

😏
Add to dictionary

cheekiest

 

[ˈtʃiːkiɪst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

describing behavior

The word 'cheekiest' is the superlative form of 'cheeky', which describes someone who is bold or disrespectful in a playful way. It often implies a level of audacity or a willingness to challenge norms. Someone who is cheekiest tends to push boundaries but can be endearing or humorous in doing so. This term is often used in a light-hearted context, relating to playful teasing or irreverence.

Synonyms

brazen, impertinent, impudent, insolent, sassy.

Examples of usage

  • He's the cheekiest kid in class.
  • She had the cheekiest smile while making the joke.
  • That was the cheekiest comment I've ever heard!
  • The cheekiest dog stole the sandwich.
  • In the cheekiest manner, he accepted the challenge.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'cheeky' comes from the British slang term 'cheek', referring to impudence or boldness.
  • It has been used since the late 19th century, originally meant to describe someone who was fresh or sassy.
  • The suffix '-iest' is a superlative form in English, indicating the highest degree of the quality.

Cultural Significance

  • In British culture, being cheeky is often perceived as endearing, showing wit without crossing into rudeness.
  • Cheekiness features prominently in children's literature, where characters often break the rules in playful ways.
  • The cheekiest characters, like Bart Simpson or Puck from Shakespeare’s 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', are beloved for their humor.

Psychology

  • Cheekiness is linked to a playful attitude, which can foster social bonding among peers.
  • People often view cheeky behavior as a sign of confidence and charisma, making such individuals more likable.
  • It's thought that playful challenges reflect intelligence and creativity, allowing for innovation in social interactions.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'cheeky monkey' is a popular expression in the UK to describe someone being playfully naughty.
  • Cheeky humor is a central theme in many sitcoms and comedies, where characters break societal norms for laughs.
  • 'Cheeky Nandos' is a viral meme from the UK that humorously highlights a lighthearted social outing.

Language Usage

  • In everyday conversation, it’s common to use 'cheeky' to describe playful teasing or lighthearted defiance.
  • The word is often used in various contexts, from describing children to playful repartee among friends.
  • Cheekiness can be both a positive trait, indicating charm, or a negative one, hinting at a lack of respect depending on tone.

Translations

Translations of the word "cheekiest" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mais atrevido

🇮🇳 सबसे बेवकूफ

🇩🇪 frechesten

🇮🇩 paling nakal

🇺🇦 найзухваліший

🇵🇱 najzuchwalszy

🇯🇵 最も生意気な

🇫🇷 le plus effronté

🇪🇸 el más descarado

🇹🇷 en cesur

🇰🇷 가장 뻔뻔한

🇸🇦 الأكثر وقاحة

🇨🇿 nejodvážnější

🇸🇰 najodvážnejší

🇨🇳 最厚脸皮的

🇸🇮 najdrznejši

🇮🇸 djarfasta

🇰🇿 ең батыл

🇬🇪 ყველაზე თამამი

🇦🇿 ən cəsarətli

🇲🇽 el más descarado

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,995, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.