cheek

[tʃiːk]

cheek Definition

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

Synonyms for cheek

• jaw
• jowl
• face
• impertinence
• insolence

Antonyms for cheek

• respect
• deference

Phrases with cheek

• tongue in cheek

  not intended to be taken seriously, often humorous or ironic

  Example

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

• turn the other 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.

• cheek by jowl

  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.