Gen Alpha slang · Adjective
cringe
Meaning
Cringe is Gen Alpha slang for embarrassing, especially through trying too hard, used mainly by ages 8–30.
Where it came from
Internet forums, 2010s. Now general-purpose.
Tone check
Dismissive. Very commonly aimed at adults.
Used in a sentence
"That advert is so cringe."
Peak: 2016–2026
Age range: 8–30
Safe for adults to use