Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

tongue-in-cheek

Cultural  
  1. Ironically: “The critic's remarks of praise were uttered strictly tongue-in-cheek.”


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Old Navy’s is somewhat tasteful and tongue-in-cheek, offering a cable-knit cerulean sweater with a charming red high-heel logo, tote bags and tops with a few of the movie’s key phrases printed on them.

From Salon • Apr. 20, 2026

An English-language debut by Russian director Kirill Sokolov, who also co-wrote its script, “They Will Kill You” is tongue-in-cheek but not witty, reveling in its excesses without bringing anything fresh to the party.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

In the tongue-in-cheek video made by Welsh government-funded site wales.com, Rhys says Wales' contribution to American culture and history dates back centuries.

From BBC • Feb. 26, 2026

That's the conundrum at the heart of "The Moment," a tongue-in-cheek mockumentary starring Charli XCX as she grapples with her meteoric rise to fame and tries to prepare for a sell-out arena tour.

From Barron's • Jan. 24, 2026

She put up with the officers asking tongue-in-cheek questions about her procedures.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover