Word Meaning
आरिज़
Aariz
Meaning
Cheek or the side of the face; a beloved's countenance.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Persian and Urdu poetry, 'aariz' denotes the cheek, celebrated as an emblem of freshness, radiant complexion, and delicate beauty. In this couplet, 'aariz-e-gul' (the cheek-like petal of the rose) mirrors the lover's memory of the beloved's face, stirred by the advent of spring. It frequently serves as a point of contrast or harmony with dark curls (zulf) and sweet lips (lab).
Etymology
Arabic (عارض), from the triconsonantal root ‘-r-ḍ (ع-ر-ض), fundamentally meaning that which appears, is presented, or forms the side/profile of the face.
Usage
Frequently compounded in ghazals as 'aariz-e-gul' (rose-cheek) or compared to a mirror to highlight radiant, glowing beauty.
Examples
The glow of the beloved's tender cheek
A tear resting upon the rose's cheek