Definition

Something that makes you feel embarrassed or uncomfortable because it is awkward or inappropriate.

Example

The movie was so cringeworthy that I had to cover my eyes during some scenes.

Conversation

Did you see that video of the guy dancing at the party?

Yeah, it was so cringeworthy I could barely watch!

I know, right? I felt secondhand embarrassment for him.

Same here! Some moments are just too much to handle.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cringeworthy is formed from "cringe" (from Old English "cringan", meaning to bend or yield) and "-worthy" (meaning deserving of or having the quality of). The word describes something that is so embarrassing or awkward that it causes one to cringe.

Memory Tip

Think of something that makes you 'bend' or 'yield' in embarrassment ('cringe') and remember that 'cringeworthy' means deserving of that feeling.

Visually Confused Words