Word Meaning
ख़ूबाँ
khūbāñ
Meaning
Beauties, the fair ones, or lovely beloveds.
Detailed Meaning
In Persian and classical Urdu poetry, 'khoobaan' is the plural of 'khoob' (fair or good), used substantively to denote beautiful persons or beloveds. In this couplet by Ghalib, it refers to captivating lovers whose outward innocence and simplicity conceal sharp wit and guile. The poet marvels at their artful charm as they make solemn vows of fidelity.
Etymology
Persian: from 'خوب' (khūb, meaning good, fine, or fair) combined with the Persian plural suffix '-ان' (-ān) denoting animate beings.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'khoobaan' functions as a collective term for the archetypal charming and coquettish beloveds of the city.
Examples
Wandering through the lane of beauties
Bewitched by the artful promises of the fair ones