cringeworthy

adjective

cringe·​wor·​thy ˈkrinj-ˌwər-t͟hē 

: so embarrassing, awkward, or upsetting as to cause one to cringe

a cringeworthy performance

Examples of cringeworthy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The good news is that even with what seems like a cringeworthy amount of weeds, your vegetable garden can still flourish. — Amy Brightfield, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Aug. 2026

Earlier on Monday, OutKick documented some of the most cringeworthy remarks in defense of Carrington. — Bobby Burack Outkick, FOXNews.com, 10 Aug. 2026

Unlike last year's extremely confusing soiree hosted by Jimmy Fallon, this year will hopefully present fewer awkward and cringeworthy moments. — Florence Ion, PC Magazine, 8 Aug. 2026

The nonchronological memoir included anecdotes from her young adulthood, life musings after meeting her husband and neurodivergent advocacy, infused with her signature cringeworthy flair. — Luke Chinman, PEOPLE, 23 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1977, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cringeworthy

• creditworthy
• untrustworthy
• blameworthy
• newsworthy
• noteworthy
• praiseworthy
• trustworthy
• unworthy
• worthy