Meaning & Definition of word "Cringe"
to
Cringe
/krɪndʒ/
noun:
- 1. A feeling of embarrassment or discomfort caused by someone else's actions.
- Example: There was a collective cringe after he made that inappropriate joke.
verb:
- 1. To bend one's body in fear or servility; to shrink back or crouch.
- Example: He cringed at the sound of the loud thunder.
- 2. To feel embarrassed or discomforted by someone else's actions or words.
- Example: I always cringe when I watch those awkward reality show moments.
Etymology
Middle English cringen, of uncertain origin, perhaps related to the Old English 'cringan' meaning to bend or yield.
Common Phrases and Expressions
cringe factor:
The level of embarrassment or discomfort elicited by something.
cringe-worthy:
Causing feelings of embarrassment or awkwardness.
secondhand embarrassment:
Feeling embarrassed on behalf of someone else.
Related Words
wince:
To flinch or recoil in pain or discomfort.
shrink:
To draw back or to make smaller.
flinch:
To make a quick, nervous movement in response to fear or surprise.
Slang Meanings of cringe
Meaning: Something that is overly embarrassing or awkward.
Example Sentence: That TikTok was so cringe, I couldn't watch it.
Meaning: To be overly contrived or trying too hard to be funny.
Example Sentence: His attempts at humor were totally cringe.