cringing

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.

“If you’re cringing about writing one performance review, imagine your manager who has to write 15 of them,” says executive coach Sabina Nawaz.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 29, 2026

These lies are so dumb and easy to disprove that the onetime criminal defense attorney in me is cringing.

From Slate • Aug. 16, 2024

Sherry plays A.J. with cringing self-loathing, inherited and desperate to be cast off.

From New York Times • Mar. 14, 2024

But, while feeling less alone with your Face Hate might take the edge off, you still may be cringing at your reflection.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2023

I sat down on my bed, cringing through another flush of embarrassment, and kept turning pages, going backward in time.

From "A Very Large Expanse of Sea" by Tahereh Mafi