The word "prideful" in literature often carries a dual sense of self-regard and arrogance, at times portraying both noble self-respect and an overweening vanity. It can depict a character's dignified yet self-important behavior, as when pride is mixed with humility or tenderness—a quality seen in the almost contradictory "prideful humility" ([1])—or when it underscores a character's haughty airs and unyielding self-confidence, as in the admonition against "prideful airs" ([2]). The term is also used to punctuate physical gestures and moods, such as a firm, demonstrative smile ([3]) or a defining look that reveals an inner state full of fervor and self-assurance ([4]). In other instances, "prideful" is employed to evoke a broader social or even ironic character, critiquing the excessive self-importance of a person or collective, as with the scornful pride attributed to a community ([5]). Through such varied uses, the word enriches narrative tone by highlighting the delicate interplay between confidence and hubris.