Tongue-in-cheek (adjective)

Expressed in a way that is not meant to be taken seriously or literally, especially as a form of humor.

Origin:

Originated in the mid-19th century as an idiom meaning insincere or ironic.

Examples:

1. The comedian's routine was full of tongue-in-cheek jokes.
2. She made a tongue-in-cheek comment about the seriousness of the situation.
3. The author used a lot of tongue-in-cheek humor in her book.
4. His proposal was met with tongue-in-cheek applause.
5. The politician's speech was laced with tongue-in-cheek remarks.