What does Cringe mean?

A name given to all actions that would make onlookers wince in embarrassment.

Cringe

Other definitions of Cringe:

  • Refers to any behaviors with which someone would embarrass themselves or others. Hard to watch.
  • Unsightly, embarrassing behavior that makes onlookers cringe. The term grew online in the late 2010s as catch-all label for all things off-putting and hard to watch.
  • May refer to the almost physical reaction people experience when watching something very awkward or distressing. Often, the awkward person is unaware of how foolish or "cringe" they are being.

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How to use the term
Cringe:

  • The cringe is strong here. I can't watch.

  • That dude was so cringe!

  • When that guy rushed the stage, I was cringing so hard.


References:

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