cheeky
UK[ˈtʃiːki]US[ˈtʃiːki]
adj
showing a lack of respect or politeness in a way that is amusing or appealing
adj
slightly rude or showing a lack of respect, but in a funny and often endearing way
Etymology
the word 'cheeky' originates from the old english noun 'cēace' or 'cēce', meaning the side of the face, which evolved into modern english 'cheek'. by the mid-19th century, the adjective-forming suffix '-y' was appended to create 'cheeky'. the semantic evolution is metaphorical, shifting from the physical body part to an attitude. the cheek, as a prominent facial feature, became associated with boldness, impudence, or effrontery, as in the phrase 'to have the cheek' to do something. thus, 'cheeky' describes behavior that is audaciously disrespectful, often with a connotation of playful or irreverent charm.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form derived from the noun 'cheek' with the addition of the adjectival suffix '-y'. it is not segmentable into meaningful classical morphemes.
Examples
the little boy gave his teacher a cheeky grin before running off.
it was a cheeky question, but the politician handled it with good humor.
he made a cheeky remark about the boss's new haircut.