First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1cheek
noun \ˈchēk\
: the part of the face that is below the eye and to the side of the nose and mouth
: an attitude or way of behaving that is rude and does not show proper respect
: one of the two parts of the body that a person sits on
Full Definition of CHEEK
1
: the fleshy side of the face below the eye and above and to the side of the mouth; broadly : the lateral aspect of the head
2
: something suggestive of the human cheek in position or form; especially : one of two laterally paired parts
3
: insolent boldness and self-assurance
See cheek defined for English-language learners
See cheek defined for kids
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Origin of CHEEK
Middle English cheke, from Old English cēace; akin to Middle Low German kāke jawbone
Synonym Discussion of CHEEK
temerity, audacity, hardihood, effrontery, nerve, cheek, gall, chutzpah mean conspicuous or flagrant boldness. temerity suggests boldness arising from rashness and contempt of danger <had the temerity to refuse>. audacity implies a disregard of restraints commonly imposed by convention or prudence <an entrepreneur with audacity and vision>. hardihood suggests firmness in daring and defiance <admired for her hardihood>. effrontery implies shameless, insolent disregard of propriety or courtesy <outraged at his effrontery>. nerve, cheek, gall, and chutzpah are informal equivalents for effrontery <the nerve of that guy> <has the cheek to call herself a singer> <had the gall to demand proof> <the chutzpah needed for a career in show business>.
Other Anatomy Terms
2cheek
verb
Definition of CHEEK
transitive verb
chiefly British : to speak rudely or impudently to
First Known Use of CHEEK
1840
CHEEK Defined for Kids
cheek
noun \ˈchēk\
Definition of CHEEK for Kids
1
: the side of the face below the eye and above and to the side of the mouth
2
: disrespectful speech or behavior <He was punished for his cheek.>
Medical Dictionary
cheek
noun \ˈchēk\
Medical Definition of CHEEK
1
: the fleshy side of the face below the eye and above and to the side of the mouth; broadly : the lateral aspect of the head
2
: buttock 1
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