Definition of cringe

cringeverb

co rúm

/krɪndʒ//krɪndʒ/

The word "cringe" has a fascinating history! The term originated in the 15th century, derived from the Old English word "cringan," which means "to bend low" or "to crouch." Initially, it was used to describe the physical act of bowing or bending in submission, often in a fearful or humiliating manner. Over time, the connotation of the word shifted, and by the 17th century, "cringe" came to mean "to behave like a cringer" – someone who is abjectly subservient, servile, or excessively deferential. This sense of shame and humiliation is still associated with the word today. In modern times, the term has also evolved to describe a sense of embarrassment, awkwardness, or discomfort, particularly in response to something cheesy, corny, or embarrassing – as in "this song is gonna make me cringe."

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to move back and/or away from somebody because you are afraid

lùi lại và/hoặc tránh xa ai đó vì bạn sợ

Example:
  • a child cringing in terror

    một đứa trẻ co rúm lại vì kinh hãi

Related words and phrases

to feel very embarrassed and uncomfortable about something

cảm thấy rất xấu hổ và khó chịu về điều gì đó

Example:
  • I cringe when I think of the poems I wrote then.

    Tôi rùng mình khi nghĩ đến những bài thơ tôi viết lúc đó.

  • She felt herself cringe with embarrassment at the memory.

    Cô cảm thấy mình co rúm lại vì xấu hổ khi nhớ lại ký ức đó.

  • The very idea made him cringe inside.

    Chính ý tưởng đó đã khiến anh co rúm người lại trong lòng.

Related words and phrases