Definition
Something painfully embarrassing to witness. Used as an adjective ('that's so cringe'), a noun ('the cringe was real'), and a verb ('I cringed'). One of the rare internet slang terms that has become effectively permanent in the English language.
Translation for Parents
You know this one. It's when something is so embarrassing that you physically recoil. The difference is that your kid uses it as an adjective constantly. 'That's cringe' is their generation's 'that's lame.' Ironically, this entire website is cringe to your teenager. I've made peace with it.
Examples
“bro that was so cringe”
“That was painfully embarrassing”
“cringe behavior”
“Embarrassing actions”
Cringe Score
Safe to use
This is the one slang term you're actually allowed to use, because everyone uses it. You literally cannot cringe while saying cringe. Wait. Can you?
Category
insult
Last Verified
2026-02-25
Sources
editorial