Definition of cringes:
(v) :
(intransitive, figuratively) To experience an inward feeling of disgust, embarrassment, or fear; (by extension) to feel very embarrassed.
(n) :
(uncountable, slang, derogatory) Things, particularly online content, which would cause an onlooker to cringe from secondhand embarrassment.
(adj) :
(slang, derogatory) Synonym of cringeworthy or uncool, inducing awkwardness or secondhand embarrassment.
(v) :
(intransitive) To cower, flinch, recoil, shrink, or tense, as in disgust, embarrassment, or fear.
(n) :
(countable) A gesture or posture of cringing (recoiling or shrinking).
(n) :
(countable, figuratively) An act or disposition of servile obeisance.