tongue-in-cheek

Definitions

Characterized by insincerity, irony, or whimsical exaggeration.

Not meant to be taken seriously; facetious or playful.

Examples

The director made a tongue-in-cheek reference to his own earlier, less successful films during the interview.

Her article was written in a tongue-in-cheek style, poking fun at the absurd trends of modern social media influencers.

Synonyms

facetious ironic sarcastic playful wry jocular flippant

Antonyms

earnest sincere serious solemn grave literal straightforward