Proud

Proud is an adjective used to describe a feeling of pleasure or satisfaction arising from one’s own achievements, qualities, or possessions, or from those of someone with whom one has a close connection. It can indicate healthy self-respect and dignity, accompanied by a confident bearing, or, in a critical sense, an excessive or arrogant attitude.

Etymology: The word traces to Old English prūd meaning bold or confident, related to Proto-Germanic roots concerned with strength and standing tall. Over time, its sense broadened to refer to the feeling of pride in oneself or others.

Usage and nuance: In everyday speech, people say they are proud of a person, a job well done, or a community. Phrases such as proud parent, proud moment, or proud tradition are common. The expression “Pride goes before a fall” reflects the warning against excessive self-regard. Distinctions are often drawn between healthy pride and vanity or hubris.

Cultural and social aspects: Pride can be a general virtue in many cultures, associated with worthiness and self-respect. It also appears in collective forms, such as national pride or LGBT Pride, the latter representing public identity, celebration, and advocacy for rights.

Related terms: Pride (the noun) and prideful or proud as related adjectives. Antonyms include humble and modest. Synonyms can include self-respect, satisfaction, and dignity, though usage depends on context and degree of emphasis.