Are you wearing your favorite designer outfit? Don't be surprised if people compliment you and tell you it's 'sheek.' This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression 'sheek' is a colloquial misspelling of the word 'chic.' To be 'sheek' means being stylish or fashionable and a trendsetter.
However, it's the incorrect spelling of the word and usually appears in text message conversations between friends. The phrase usually applies to women and their fashion sense.
Example Usage
“This makeup collection is so sheek. It has everything a girl needs to look great. I’m so glad they launched this range for PoCs. It’s hard to find something suitable for my skin tone.”
“Your wardrobe is so sheek. I'm so envious that you have all the latest garments from designer labels. You’ve got to be the most stylish person I know.”
“That girl's sense of style is so sheek. She looks like a million bucks. From the shoes to the dress, to her hair, she’s a vision of perfection.”
Origin
The expression 'sheek' derives from the word 'chic.' 'Chic' appeared in the English language in the early 1600 and originated from the word "chicanery," defined as "sophistry or legal quibbling." Evidence also links the word to the German expression "shick," meaning "tact or skill."
The French writer and critic Charles Baudelaire wrote a description of the word chic in 1846.
"A horrendous and strange word, recently coined, that I don't even know how to spell."
Chic would return to its French origins in 1966 with the international fashion brand mogul Yves Saint Laurent. YSL designed the 'Le Smoking tuxedo suit,' pioneering minimalist styling for women.
Language experts are unsure when people started using 'Sheek' instead of 'chic,' but most agree it's likely a misspelling. The first entry of 'sheek' in the Urban Dictionary is in 2004, where it has the following definition.
"It's like coool, but not too cool, its dorky but not too dorky, it's like suave, but to a lesser degree."
Phrases Similar to Sheek
- Chic.
- Stylish.
- Fashionable.
Phrases Opposite to Sheek
- No style.
- No dress sense.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Sheek.
Ways People May Say Sheek Incorrectly
Some people may use 'sheek' to describe something stylish and fashionable but overrated. Some people may also confuse 'chic' with 'chick,' a slang term for a girl. However, 'Sheek' is an expression referring to a person's unique sense of style. Some people may assume that ‘Chic’ is a town in France, but that’s not the case.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Sheek
You can use the phrase 'sheek' to replace the word 'chic.' You can use the term in text messages with friends. Since 'Sheek' and 'chic' have a similar phonetic pronunciation, they sound identical in verbal conversations.
You can use 'sheek' to describe something stylish and fashionable. If something is 'chic' or 'sheek,' it's desirable. The term can refer to garments, jewelry, shoes, and a person's overall style. While it's a French word, it's commonly understood in the English language and well-known in most English-speaking countries across the world.
If you use the term in text conversations, you could add extra 'e' characters to emphasize your appreciation of the other person's style. For example, 'Wow, your outfit is so sheeeeek.'