The word 傲慢 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing a layer of meaning to create a unified concept. The first character, 傲 (ào), conveys the core sense of pride, haughtiness, or an inflated sense of self. The second character, 慢 (màn), originally meaning slow or tardy, here extends to imply negligence, disrespect, or a dismissive attitude toward others. When fused, 傲 provides the internal state of superiority, while 慢 describes the external, behavioral manifestation of that feeling, a contemptuous slowness to respond or acknowledge others. Thus, the compound paints a complete picture of arrogance as both an inner pride and an outer display of contemptuous disregard.