New Cheese slang? It's #givingcheese

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New Cheese slang?  It's #givingcheese

Fondue: You've heard of Webster, and Oxford, right?

Cheesy: Duh.

Fondue: Well, make room for Just Cheesy! 
That's right we've created our very own cheesy terminology. 

Cheesy: Holy Cow!

Fondue: Check out #givingcheese in the "Say Cheese" section of our website.


Giving Cheese đź§€ (idiom). (#givingcheese) phrase

Definition:

  1. Exhibiting qualities that are excessively silly, corny, or over-the-top in an amusing or exaggerated manner.

  2. Conveying a vibe that is humorous, kitschy, or reminiscent of something playfully absurd.

Usage:

  • "That old-school dance routine is totally giving cheese."

  • "His over-the-top love letter? Giving cheese, but in a cute way."

  • "That rom-com? So dramatic, so predictable—it’s giving cheese."

Etymology & Development:

The phrase giving cheese follows the linguistic pattern of the modern slang construction â€śit’s giving [X]”, which gained prominence in the early 2020s, particularly on social media platforms such as TikTok and Twitter. This format is used to describe something as strongly embodying a specific aesthetic, emotion, or essence. 

The term cheese in colloquial English has long been associated with exaggerated sentimentality, corny behavior, or excessive theatricality. The origins of this usage trace back to at least the early 20th century, where cheesy was used to describe something of low quality, excessively sentimental, or unsubtle in its attempt at sophistication. Earlier references in American slang where cheese has been used both positively (big cheese for an important person) and negatively (cut the cheese as a euphemism for flatulence).

By merging the modern giving [X] structure with cheese, this idiom has evolved to describe moments that exude exaggerated, sentimental, or overtly playful energy—often in a nostalgic or humorous way. Though often lighthearted, the phrase can carry either an affectionate or teasing tone, depending on context.

Cultural Adoption:
The phrase giving cheese has been embraced in various media, including podcasts and social platforms. For instance, in episode 175 titled "Say Cheese" of Just Cheesy: The Podcast!, the hosts delve into the nuances of this idiom, exploring its origins and contemporary usage. 


Leave a comment to let us know how you're using the term #givingcheese!

Stay Sharp, 
Fondue

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