proud

In Appalachian and Southern talk, "proud" often means thankful or glad, not just boastful. Saying "I’m proud to see you" means "I’m glad I got to see you."

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Hillbilly Dude Says...

My neighbor always said it plain and warm: 'I’m proud I got to see ya today.' Same neighbor from the other side of the mountain.

Pronunciation

[prah-yode]

Meaning & Usage

- Thankful / glad (adjective)

Mae:

I’m proud you stopped by.

Earl:

I’m proud to see you too.

- Pleased about something (adjective)

Ruby:

We got the hay in before the rain.

Estel:

Proud of that.

other spellings: glad, thankful, grateful, happy, and mighty glad

★ When an Appalachian says they’re "proud," they don’t mean boastful - they mean grateful. Outsiders sometimes miss the warmth in this usage. ★

Origin

The word "proud" in English has long meant both boastful and pleased. In Appalachian and Southern speech, the "pleased/glad" sense stuck around in everyday talk, often tied to hospitality and kinship.

Notes

This meaning of "proud" is still common in Appalachia and the South. It often shows up in greetings, leave-takings, and expressions of hospitality. It reflects a culture that values gratitude and connection.

Say It Like a Southerner

Said simple and heartfelt: "prah-yode." Almost two syllables, but not quite. Tone carries warmth, more about gratitude than boasting.

Kin Topics

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Common Questions

Does "proud" here mean boastful?

No - it means thankful, glad, or pleased.

Is this usage unique to Appalachia?

It’s most common in Appalachia and the South, though older rural English used "proud" this way too.

Do people still say "I’m proud to see you"?

Yes, especially among older generations, but you’ll still hear it in friendly talk today.

Is it polite?

Very - it’s a warm, welcoming expression.