Word Meaning
ख़ुशूनत
khushūnat
Meaning
Harshness, roughness, severity, or sternness of demeanor.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'khushūnat' denotes harshness, severity, or an abrasive quality in tone and temperament. In the quoted verse, it pairs with 'khashm' (wrath) to describe the beloved's unrelenting acrimony and harsh treatment toward the lover. It stands in direct contrast to former acts of grace, favor, and affection that have now disappeared.
Etymology
Arabic, from the root kh-sh-n (خ-ش-ن), signifying coarseness, roughness, or severity.
Usage
Frequently paired in the hendiadys 'khashm-o-khushūnat' in the ghazal to portray the petulant cruelty and cold aloofness of the beloved.
Examples
The harshness of your speech wounded the fragile heart.
Where once lived grace, now only anger and severity remain.