cheesy

1 of 2

adjective

ˈchē-zē 

cheesier; cheesiest

1

a

: resembling or suggesting cheese especially in consistency or odor

b

: containing cheese

2

: shabby sense 3c, cheap

a cheesy movie

cheesy motels

cheesiness noun

cheesiness

2 of 2

noun

chees·​i·​ness

ˈchē-zē-nəs

plural -es

: the quality or state of being cheesy

Synonyms of cheesy

Adjective

• inappropriate
• tacky
• trashy
• unsuitable
• incorrect
• tasteless
• wrong
• cheap
• unfashionable

Examples of cheesy in a Sentence

Adjective

cheesy plastic knickknacks lined the fireplace mantel

a cheesy watch that he bought from a sidewalk vendor preying on tourists

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Kathryn Bigelow is one of our best action directors, even if this one is a bit cheesier than her best work. — Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 8 Oct. 2026

The visual effects are chintzy, Jackson’s performance is schticky, and even if Aleem’s script is cheesy, Harlin’s execution of it doesn’t elevate the material. — Katie Walsh, Variety, 7 Oct. 2026

Even though Gordon usually sports a cheesy grin due to his upbeat nature, producing his first 100-yard rushing performance and scoring his second touchdown of the 2026 season on nine carries warranted a toothy smile. — Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 5 Oct. 2026

The thick, crispy and wonderfully cheesy slices cost between $10 and $12 at the festival. — Sacbee.com, 2 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for cheesy

• breezy
• easy
• queasy
• sleazy
• wheezy
• marchese
• speakeasy
• uneasy

Kids Definition

cheesy

adjective

ˈchē-zē 

cheesier; cheesiest

1

a

: resembling or suggesting cheese

b

: containing cheese

2

: cheap sense 3a

a cheesy movie

cheesiness noun

Medical Definition

cheesy

adjective

ˈchē-zē 

cheesier; cheesiest

: resembling cheese in consistency

cheesy lesions

a cheesy discharge