Word Meaning
कफ़न
kafan
hinoun, masculine
Meaning
A burial shroud or winding-sheet used to wrap a corpse.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'kafan' denotes the burial shroud covering a deceased body. In this verse by Ghalib, it functions as a merciful veil that hides the flaws and exposed vulnerabilities of the speaker, who felt fundamentally disgraced in every worldly attire. It represents mortality as the ultimate concealment of life's indignities and inner shame.
Etymology
Arabic root k-f-n (ك-ف-ن), meaning to shroud, wrap up, or cover.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'kafan' frequently evokes the themes of tragic martyrdom in love, utter renunciation, and the final covering of earthly sorrows.
Examples
The shroud finally concealed his worldly grief.
A plain white shroud was his final garment.
Synonyms
शव-वस्त्रचादर-ए-मर्ग
Related Words
दफ़्नजनाज़ागोरमज़ार