'cringe' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'cringan,' where 'cringan' meant 'to yield or fall in battle.'

'cringan' transformed into the Middle English word 'crengen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'cringe.'

Initially, it meant 'to yield or fall in battle,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to shrink back in fear or discomfort.'