Cheeking: meaning, definitions and examples
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cheeking
[ ˈtʃiːkɪŋ ]
slang use
Cheeking is a colloquial term often used to describe a form of cheeky behavior, where someone is being playful or mischievous in a way that can be considered slightly disrespectful or impertinent. This behavior can often elicit a humorous reaction, and it typically involves pushing boundaries of decorum in a light-hearted manner. While it can be seen as playful, it might also indicate a level of insolence depending on the context. It's commonly used among friends or peers, indicating familiarity and comfort in social interaction.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Stop cheeky with your comments!
- Her cheeky grin was hard to resist.
- He's always cheeking around in class.
Word origin
The term 'cheek' in the sense of 'impudent behavior' has roots dating back to Middle English, where it was often used to describe someone who was involved in playful banter or who exhibited insolence. The origin can be traced back to the Old English word 'ceace', which referred to the jaw or the cheek, indicating that it may have originally had a connection to facial expressions depicting mischievousness or impertinence. Over time, the term evolved into various derivatives, with 'cheeky' becoming popular in British English as a playful descriptor for similar behavior. The transformation of 'cheek' into 'cheeking' perhaps reflects the dynamic nature of language, where playful behavior is encapsulated in a term that conveys both familiarity and disregard for traditional manners. Cheeking has therefore found a place in modern slang, especially in informal settings.