Word Meaning
ख़ामोशी
Khāmoshī
hinoun, feminine
Meaning
Silence, quietude, or the state of being mute and reticent.
Detailed Meaning
Khāmoshī denotes silence, quietude, or the restraint of voice. In this couplet by Ghalib, it functions as the deep, unseen root from which meaningful speech blossoms like foliage. Rather than mere muteness, it represents a profound and fertile state of contemplation.
Etymology
Persian, derived from 'khāmōsh' (silent, quiet) with the abstract noun suffix '-ī'.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, khāmoshī often signifies profound melancholy, mystic introspection, or an eloquence that surpasses speech.
Examples
The ache of the heart remains concealed in silence.
Even your silence is an eloquent response.
Synonyms
सुकूतचुप्पीमौन
Related Words
ख़ामोशबे-ज़बानीकम-गोई