कुत्ते

Meaning

Dog; metaphorically used as a term of contempt for a base rival.

Detailed Meaning

In Urdu poetry, 'kuttā' (oblique form 'kutte') literally denotes a dog, but is often used metaphorically in a derogatory manner. In this couplet, it is hurled with intense bitterness at the rival or enemy who audaciously attacked the defenseless lover, the holy sanctuary's prey.

Etymology

Derived from Sanskrit 'kukkura' through Prakrit 'kutta' into Hindustani.

Usage

In classical ghazal, the dog is either used derisively for the rival (raqīb) or invoked humbly by the lover who likens himself to the dog of the beloved's street.

Examples

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Related Words