cringe

US /krɪndʒ/

UK /krɪndʒ/

C1

verb

  • To crouch or move back suddenly, as in fear

noun

  • An act of cringing; a shrinking or recoiling movement.

other

  • To behave in an excessively submissive or ingratiating manner.
  • To recoil or shrink in fear, embarrassment, or disgust.

other

  • To cause to feel embarrassed or uncomfortable.