Cheek

Definition

Cheek refers to either side of the face below the eyes and between the nose and the ears. It can also mean impudent or disrespectful behavior, typically in the phrase "to have the cheek" or "cheeky."

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tʃiːk/
• Respelling: cheek

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tʃiːk/
• Respelling: cheek

Etymology

The word "cheek" comes from the Old English word "céace," meaning "jaw" or "side of the face." It has Proto-Germanic roots ("kaukô") and is related to words in German and Dutch for the same facial feature.

Derivatives

• Cheeky (adjective)
• Cheekiness (noun)
• Cheekbone (noun)
• Cheekily (adverb)
• Cheeks (plural noun)

Synonyms

• Jaw
• Face
• Impudence

Antonyms

• Politeness
• Courtesy
• None

Usage

The noun "cheek" is used to describe the side of the face, as in "She kissed him on the cheek." It can also refer to impudent or disrespectful behavior, often in informal contexts, such as "He had the cheek to interrupt the meeting."

Related Terms

• Cheekbone: The bone beneath the eye that forms the prominence of the cheek.
• Jaw: The lower part of the face that includes the mouth and chin.
• Impudence: Bold or disrespectful behavior.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The fleshy side of the face below the eye: Refers to the part of the face between the nose and ears.
  • Example: "Tears ran down her cheeks as she smiled."
• Impudence or disrespectful behavior: Refers to rude or bold behavior.
  • Example: "He had the cheek to criticize her work in front of everyone."