Cheekily: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• Derived from the word 'cheek,' which referred to both the physical face and later evolved to mean impudence or lack of respect.
• First recorded use of 'cheeky' dates back to the early 20th century in British English, capturing a playful insolence.
• The '-ily' ending transforms it into an adverb, indicating the manner in which an action is done – in this case, cheekily.

Cultural Usage

• In British culture, being cheeky is often seen as a sign of charm, not just rudeness, reflecting a nuanced view of social interactions.
• Television shows, like 'The Office,' often depict cheekily humorous characters who navigate awkward situations with wit.
• Cheeky comments can create camaraderie among friends, where playful teasing strengthens bonds.

Psychology

• People who act cheekily may be using humor as a coping mechanism, helping them navigate anxiety or social discomfort.
• Laughing at cheeky behavior often signals acceptance in peer groups, encouraging playful interactions and social bonding.
• In social psychology, cheeky responses challenge authority while maintaining an air of innocence, creating a complex dynamic.

Literature

• Classic literature often features cheeky characters, such as in Mark Twain's 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer', where mischief is celebrated.
• Contemporary literature may depict protagonists who exhibit cheeky attitudes as a way to challenge societal norms or expectations.
• Authors like Roald Dahl play with cheeky language to create humor and engage young readers, making the vocabulary memorable.

Popular Phrases

• 'Cheekily' often appears in phrases like 'cheeky grin' or 'a cheeky remark,' enhancing the imagery of playful defiance.
• The popularity of social media has led to an increase in cheeky memes, reflecting modern culture's embrace of playful irreverence.
• 'Cheekily' embodies a playful spirit often encouraged in informal settings, leading to more relaxed conversations.

Ranking #38,062, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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• 38059 tumbleweed
• 38060 stupider
• 38061 tush
• 38062 cheekily
• 38063 fraternized
• 38064 cannibalized
• 38065 surmountable
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