hold (one's) head up

hold (one's) head up

To display confidence and pride, especially with one's body language, as a way of showing that one is not ashamed of something. Such behavior often includes literally holding one's head up instead of letting it hang down. I know you're disappointed to have lost, but you should hold your head up—you ran an excellent race.
See also: head, hold, up
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

hold one's head up

Fig. to be confident of the respect of other people; to hold up one's head with pride rather than bowing one's head. (A bowed head would indicate a lack of confidence.) I am so embarrassed. I will never be able to hold my head up again. Now I can hold up my head with pride.
See also: head, hold, up
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.

hold your ˈhead up (high)

not feel ashamed, guilty or embarrassed about something: After this scandal, he will never be able to hold his head up high again. OPPOSITE: hang your head (in/for shame)
See also: head, hold, up
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • hold head up
  • hold your head up
  • (from) top to toe
  • (one's) jollies
  • at (one's) expense
  • at expense
  • at somebody's expense
  • at someone's expense
  • a change of scenery
  • a change of scene