Word Meaning
इन्तिज़ार
intizaar
Meaning
Waiting, expectation, or longing for someone's arrival.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'intizaar' denotes the enduring, often painful state of awaiting the beloved or union. In this couplet, it forms the metaphor 'sahraa-e-intizaar' (desert of waiting), portraying waiting as a vast, barren expanse. The lover humbles himself like the dust of the road to endure this endless vigil.
Etymology
Arabic root ن-ظ-ر (n-ẓ-r), derived from the Form VIII verbal noun اِنْتِظَار (intiẓār), meaning 'to await' or 'to anticipate'.
Usage
A quintessential motif of the ghazal, 'intizaar' encapsulates the lover's perpetual state suspended between unbearable yearning and hopeful devotion.
Examples
A lifetime spent in waiting passed in an instant.
The eyes grew weary in waiting for the dawn.