Cringing Meaning in English
word · lemma: cringe
Definition
Showing discomfort or embarrassment either physically by shrinking away, or emotionally, as when you feel secondhand embarrassment for someone else.
Usage & Nuances
Often used when someone feels embarrassed for themselves or others ('secondhand embarrassment'). 'Cringing' can be both a physical action (shrinking back) and an emotional reaction. Common with social awkwardness, bad jokes, or embarrassing moments.
Example Sentences
He was cringing when the teacher called his name.
basic
She felt cringing embarrassment during the speech.
basic
The awkward joke left everyone cringing.
basic
I'm cringing just thinking about what happened yesterday.
natural
We were all cringing at his terrible singing.
natural
You should have seen me cringing when my dad started dancing at the party.
natural