Cheeky: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in a playful and often affectionate way to describe someone who is bold or slightly naughty but in an endearing manner.

• He gave the waiter a cheeky grin.
• She made a cheeky comment during the meeting.

Often carries a stronger negative connotation, describing behavior that is offensively bold or disrespectful.

• His impudent remarks got him into trouble.
• She was impudent enough to laugh during the serious discussion.

Used to describe someone who is boldly playful or cheeky, often with a sense of flirtation involved.

• She gave him a saucy wink.
• He made a saucy remark that made everyone laugh.

Used to describe someone who is being rude or showing a lack of respect, especially towards someone of higher status.

• The student's impertinent question shocked the teacher.
• It was impertinent of him to interrupt the speaker.

Used to describe playful behavior that is meant to cause trouble or annoyance, but typically not in a harmful way.

• The mischievous child hid his sister’s shoes.
• Her mischievous antics are well-known among her friends.

Used when someone is being playful or teasing in a way that is slightly rude but intended to be funny or endearing.

• She gave him a cheeky grin after making a playful joke about his haircut.
• That was quite a cheeky comment you made at dinner!

Used to describe someone who is brave and confident, often involving action or decisions that require courage.

• The bold firefighter rescued the children from the burning building.
• He made a bold move by quitting his job to start his own business.

Used in more formal situations to describe someone who takes bold risks or challenges authority, often with a sense of admiration.

• The audacious entrepreneur launched a new tech company against all odds.
• Her audacious plan to climb the mountain alone amazed everyone.

Used when someone has an attractive personality or behavior, making them likable and able to persuade others easily.

• He has such a charming smile that everyone feels at ease around him.
• The hostess was charming, ensuring all her guests felt welcome.

Used to describe someone who is shamelessly bold and disrespectful, often considered rude and negative.

• The impudent child spoke back to his teacher without any concern for respect.
• Her impudent behavior at the meeting shocked everyone in the room.