cheek

[tʃiːk]

cheek Definition

  • 1either side of the face below the eye
  • 2impudent or disrespectful behavior
  • 3audacity or nerve

Using cheek: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "cheek" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She kissed him on the cheek.

  • Example

    He turned the other cheek when insulted.

  • Example

    The child had a rosy cheek.

  • Example

    He had the cheek to ask for a raise after only two weeks on the job.

cheek Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for cheek

Phrases with cheek

  • not intended to be taken seriously, often humorous or ironic

    Example

    His comment about being the best dancer was clearly tongue in cheek.

  • to respond to an insult or injury without retaliating

    Example

    When someone insults you, it's better to turn the other cheek than to start a fight.

  • very close together, side by side

    Example

    The houses in this neighborhood are built cheek by jowl.

Origins of cheek

Old English 'ceace', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'kaak' and German 'Backe'

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Summary: cheek in Brief

The term 'cheek' [tʃiːk] refers to either side of the face below the eye. It can also mean impudent or disrespectful behavior, as in 'He had the cheek to ask for a raise after only two weeks on the job.' The phrase 'turn the other cheek' means to respond to an insult or injury without retaliating.

How do native speakers use this expression?