tongue-in-cheek

US /ˌtʌŋɪnˈtʃik/

UK /ˌtʌŋɪnˈtʃi:k/

B1

adjective

  • Expressing a thought in a way that appears serious, but is actually meant to be humorous or ironic.

adverb

  • In a humorous or ironic way; not to be taken seriously.
  • In a manner that is humorous or ironic, often pretending to be serious.