# cheeky

/ˈtʃiki/ (US) · /tʃˈiːki/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cheeky
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. playfully rude

adjective · CEFR B1 · British English · Informal

being slightly rude or bold, but in a way that is funny or charming rather than truly mean.

For teachers: impudent or impertinent in a manner that is perceived as amusing, endearing, or harmlessly bold.

- The boy gave his teacher a cheeky grin after making a joke in class.
- His cheeky response to the interviewer's serious question managed to break the tension and win over the panel.

Usage: Often used to describe children or playful adults.

### 2. a quick treat

adjective · CEFR B2 · British English · Informal

used to describe something you enjoy as a small, often unhealthy treat, usually done quickly or without planning.

For teachers: denoting an indulgence or treat, often consumed spontaneously or when one perhaps should not.

- We decided to go for a cheeky burger on the way home from the gym.
- After a long week of dieting, she treated herself to a cheeky glass of wine while finishing her book.

Usage: Commonly collocates with food and drink items like 'pint', 'Nando's', or 'snack'.

## Examples

- The cheeky child winked at the teacher.
- Her cheeky comment about the boss's tie made everyone laugh.
- The film's cheeky tone balances sharp social satire with lighthearted romance, avoiding heavy-handed moralizing.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.