Stolthed

Stolthed is a Danish noun meaning pride, a positive emotion or state of satisfaction arising from one's own achievements, qualities, or from belonging to a group. It can refer to personal pride in work or character, or to communal pride in family, community, or nation. In usage, stolthed often connotes dignity and self-respect as well as a sense of accomplishment.

Etymology: The noun is formed from the adjective stolt meaning proud, plus the suffix -hed, a common Danish noun-forming suffix indicating a state or quality. Cognates exist across the North Germanic languages, such as Norwegian stolthet and Swedish stolthet.

Psychology and linguistics: In psychology, pride is classified as a self-conscious emotion that emerges after a successful goal achievement or moral worth. Researchers distinguish authentic pride, tied to real accomplishments and self-improvement, from hubristic pride, linked to arrogance and ego-boosting. Pride can reinforce motivation and persistence but can also lead to defensiveness or social conflict when unchecked.

Cultural aspects: Stolthed plays a role in personal identity and social life, from parent-child pride to national or cultural pride. Expressions vary by culture, and pride can be celebrated in ceremonies, achievements, or symbols, but excessive pride can be viewed negatively in some moral or religious contexts.

See also: self-esteem, dignity, national pride.