Word Meaning
ख़सम-जान
khasam-jaan
hinoun
Meaning
An enemy of life; a deadly foe, especially a tormenting beloved.
Detailed Meaning
Literally meaning an adversary or enemy of life, the compound refers to someone fatal to one's existence. In classical Urdu ghazal, it is a frequent epithet for the beloved whose beauty, aloofness, and torment slowly destroy the devoted lover. In the provided couplet, it characterizes the beloved whose absorption in haughty coquetry makes her a fatal affliction for the lover.
Etymology
Arabic 'khasm' (خصم, adversary/enemy) + Persian 'jān' (جان, soul/life).
Usage
Often used in ghazals as an accusatory yet tender trope for the cruel, aloof beloved.
Examples
She proved to be the enemy of my life.
Her captivating glance is a deadly foe.
Synonyms
दुश्मन-ए-जानक़ातिलजानी-दुश्मन
Related Words
ख़समजानआशिक़महव-ए-नाज़