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.

He drives a Ford pickup truck and cringes at needing a security detail, according to a person who knows him well.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

"I was in the studio and Lois texted me, 'By the way, we forgot our anniversary'," he cringes.

From BBC • Oct. 22, 2025

But he cringes when anyone suggests he’s an adrenaline junkie.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 3, 2024

I'm a loving person who cringes at everything associated with February 14, a fan of democracy who wants to hide every time July 4 rolls around and a very grateful individual who actively dislikes Thanksgiving.

From Salon • Nov. 22, 2023

He cringes at the closeness of the bird’s large bill to his brother’s neck, wishing it would fly away.

From "Where Things Come Back" by John Corey Whaley