cringe

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A long-standing critic said "it is better to cringe and do a U-turn than do the wrong thing".

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2026

When other politicians try to respond to Trump in kind, they often come across as a bit try-hard, a lot cringe.

From Slate • Mar. 3, 2026

Oftentimes, when we cringe after an overshare, the other person is grateful to have been trusted.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 20, 2026

Once the child arrives, a pop star parent’s every move is doomed to face that dreaded word: cringe.

From Salon • Jan. 10, 2026

I cringe at my nickname and the fact that she finally remembers my existence.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith