Crossword Genius

Proud people keep them up (11)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

appearances

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'proud people' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are plural nouns, I can't see how they can define each other.

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for appearances that I've seen is " Arrivals; impressions".)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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