Word Meaning
आदमी
aadmi
Meaning
Human being, man, mortal person, individual, representative or witness.
Detailed Meaning
Literally refers to a descendant of Adam, meaning a human being or mortal person. In this couplet by Ghalib, it specifically implies an advocate, witness, or representative on man's behalf. The poet laments that humans are judged solely by celestial scribes without any human witness present at the time of recording.
Etymology
Arabic via Persian: from 'Ādam' (Adam, the first human), with the nisba suffix '-ī'.
Usage
In classical Urdu ghazal, 'aadmi' often contrasts mere biological humanity with moral nobility ('insan'), or serves as the fragile, mortal subject pleading against celestial authority.
Examples
Was any man of ours present when it was penned?
It is hard indeed for a man to become truly human.