proud as a peacock: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘proud as a peacock’ mean?
The idiom "proud as a peacock" means feeling a deep sense of self-importance or satisfaction about oneself or one's achievements. It is often used to describe someone who is excessively proud, arrogant, or boastful.
Idiom Explorer
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Majestic Confidence
The idiom "proud as a peacock" is commonly used in the English language to describe someone who is extremely proud, self-assured, or excessively confident. It compares a person's pride to the extravagant display of a peacock's beautiful and vibrant feathers.
The origin of this idiom can be traced back to ancient Greece. Peacocks were considered sacred to the goddess Hera and were often depicted in Greek mythology as symbols of beauty, elegance, and immortality. Their regal appearance and majestic feathers were associated with pride and vanity. Over time, the phrase "proud as a peacock" emerged as a metaphor to describe individuals who displayed an excessive sense of pride or self-importance.
This idiom gained popularity during the 16th and 17th centuries, coinciding with the period of European exploration and colonization. Peacocks were imported from Asia and became fashionable pets among the wealthy and aristocratic classes. Their vibrant plumage and graceful demeanor made them a symbol of wealth and status. The idiom "proud as a peacock" became common in both written and spoken English, further solidifying its meaning in everyday conversation.
Today, the idiom "proud as a peacock" is a well-known expression used to describe individuals who display an inflated sense of pride, confidence, or satisfaction in their achievements or appearance. It is often used in a lighthearted or humorous context. While the phrase carries a predominantly positive connotation, it can also be used to highlight arrogance or boastfulness in certain situations.
The idiom "proud as a peacock" is deeply rooted in cultural associations and symbolism associated with the peacock. Its origins in mythology and its historical connection to wealth and status contribute to its enduring popularity in the English language. As with any idiom, its meaning and usage may vary slightly depending on the context and the interpretation of the speaker.
The related idiom "full of oneself" shares a similar meaning to "proud as a peacock." It describes someone who is overly self-assured or excessively confident in their abilities or appearance. Just like a peacock's display of vibrant feathers, individuals who are "full of themselves" often seek to draw attention and admiration to their own perceived superiority. While both idioms convey a sense of pride, "full of oneself" emphasizes a more self-centered and egotistical attitude.
Another related idiom, "pleased with oneself," also aligns with the concept of being "proud as a peacock." When someone is "pleased with oneself," they feel a sense of satisfaction and contentment with their own achievements or attributes. This sense of self-satisfaction is akin to the pride that a peacock exhibits when displaying its beautiful feathers. Both idioms convey a positive self-evaluation and a feeling of gratification, highlighting an individual's confidence and self-assurance.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom proud as a peacock can be used in a sentence:
1. She walked into the room wearing her new designer dress, looking proud as a peacock.
2. After receiving the award for her outstanding performance, Sarah was as proud as a peacock.
3. The young boy proudly showed off his artwork, beaming as proud as a peacock.
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