Word Meaning
खाओ
khao
hiverb
Meaning
To eat; here idiomatically used for being deceived or taken in.
Detailed Meaning
'खाओ' is the imperative form of the verb 'खाना' (to eat). In classical Urdu poetry, it frequently forms idioms of deception and endurance, such as 'फ़रेब खाना' (to be deceived) or 'ग़म खाना' (to suffer grief). In this couplet, Mir cautions his friends not to swallow or fall for the beloved's deceitful display of affection.
Etymology
From Prakrit 'खाइ' (khāi), descended from Sanskrit 'खादति' (khādati - to chew, eat).
Usage
In classical ghazal, 'खाना' often functions as a light verb to express suffering blows, grief, or deception ('ग़म खाना', 'ज़ख़्म खाना', 'फ़रेब खाना').
Examples
Do not be deceived by appearances
Endure sorrow silently
Synonyms
चखनाभ्रमित होनाधोखा खाना
Related Words
खानाफ़रेबधोखा