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Definition |
lighthearted and not serious speech in a
sarcastic manner |
Examples |
1) His compliment about my cooking skills was clearly
tongue in cheek. 2) Her claim of
being a 'professional procrastinator' was said with a
tongue-in-cheek smile. |
Etymology |
It originates from the physical act of
pressing one's tongue against the inside of the cheek. |
Synonyms |
ironic wit, dry humor |
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