Word Meaning
गाली
gaali
hinoun
Meaning
Abuse, insult, reviling word, invective.
Detailed Meaning
In Urdu poetry, 'gaali' denotes an abusive or insulting utterance. Here, the lover perversely relishes the beloved's foul-mouthed rebuke ('bad-zabaaniyan') as a form of intimate attention rather than cold indifference. It highlights the trope where even hostility from the beloved is treasured over silence.
Etymology
Sanskrit 'गालि' (gāli - censure, abusive speech), via Prakrit into Hindi/Urdu.
Usage
In classical ghazal, the beloved's 'gaali' is often depicted as a coveted grace, far preferred over cold neglect.
Examples
Receiving abuse from the beloved's lips is sweeter than life.
Do not deny me abuse, if you cannot grant a blessing.
Synonyms
दशनामअपशब्ददुर्वचनकोसना
Related Words
बद-ज़बानीसुख़नत'नादशनाम