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cheek

noun

/tʃik/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of cheek

A characteristic of audacity, boldness, or impertinence in a person's behavior or attitude.
"The child had the cheek to talk back to the teacher."

Detailed meaning of cheek

In this sense, 'cheek' represents a form of effrontery or brashness that disregards social norms or boundaries. It denotes a willingness to challenge authority or engage in actions or remarks that are considered disrespectful, forward, or impudent. When someone displays cheek, they exhibit a certain level of self-assuredness and a lack of inhibition, often crossing the line of what is considered polite or acceptable. This can manifest in various ways, such as making impertinent remarks, defying rules or conventions, or showing a lack of deference or respect. The concept of cheek embodies a boldness that can be seen as either charmingly audacious or as an act of disregard for social decorum, depending on the context and the perception of the individuals involved.

Example sentences containing cheek

1. He had the cheek to ask for a raise after only a month on the job.
2. Her audacious cheek in criticizing my work left me speechless.
3. It was a real cheek for him to invite himself to the party without being invited.
4. I couldn't believe the cheek of his request for a loan without any intention of paying it back.
5. The customer had the cheek to demand a refund for a product they had clearly damaged themselves.
6. She showed great cheek by cutting in line and acting as if she had done nothing wrong.

History and etymology of cheek

The noun 'cheek,' in the sense of audacity or impertinence, has a fascinating etymology. It originates from the Old English word 'ceace,' which referred to the human jaw or jawbone. This word evolved over time, and by the Middle English period, it had taken on the additional meaning of the side of the face. The association between the jaw and boldness likely stems from the idea that displaying audacious behavior or attitude often involves prominently using one's jaw in speech, such as when making bold statements or cheeky remarks. Thus, the etymology of 'cheek' in this context highlights the connection between the physical aspect of the jaw and the figurative sense of impertinence or boldness in a person's behavior or attitude.

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Further usage examples of cheek

1. The politician's cheek in promising to lower taxes without presenting a feasible plan was evident.
2. He had the cheek to flirt with my partner right in front of me.
3. The employee had the cheek to take credit for my ideas in the meeting.
4. It was a cheek for her to criticize my cooking when she had never cooked a meal herself.
5. The student had the cheek to argue with the professor about a topic they clearly knew very little about.
6. Her cheek knew no bounds as she challenged authority.
7. He had the cheek to ask for a favor after his behavior.
8. That level of cheek can sometimes be mistaken for confidence.
9. I can't believe the cheek of some people's demands.
10. The child's cheek often led to amusing conversations.
11. Their cheeky remarks always livened up the atmosphere.
12. I admire your cheek in tackling such a difficult task.
13. He displayed great cheek by speaking out against the norm.
14. She had the cheek to question his judgment publicly.
15. It takes a lot of cheek to face your fears head-on.
16. His cheek often got him into trouble but also won hearts.
17. The student's cheek made the teacher smile despite it all.
18. You've got to admire the cheek of his audacious plan.
19. It's his sheer cheek that allows him to take risks.
20. That level of cheek is what makes her so memorable.
21. Their cheeky sense of humor never failed to amuse.
22. The comedian's cheek shone through his witty jokes.
23. I can't believe the cheek of some people's comments.
24. His cheek led to some interesting debates in class.
25. Your cheek might ruffle feathers, but it's refreshing.