The word 自豪 is formed by combining two characters: 自 (zì), meaning "self", and 豪 (háo), which carries connotations of grandeur, heroism, and proud excellence. Together, they create a conceptual blend where 豪 describes the powerful, lofty quality of the feeling, and 自 anchors that magnificent feeling inwardly to the self. Thus, the term conceptually means a grand sense of pride that springs from one's own being, achievements, or identity.