Word Meaning
चौंक
chaunk
hiverb
Meaning
To startle, be alarmed, or awaken suddenly from sleep.
Detailed Meaning
The term refers to a sudden state of alarm, surprise, or being startled out of slumber. In this verse, it depicts the sudden awakening of the beloved in the middle of the night, startled from sleep while rubbing or tending to delicate eyes. It captures both involuntary fright and abrupt consciousness in poetic imagery.
Etymology
Tadbhav (Hindi/Urdu), derived from Prakrit roots associated with sudden reaction or alarm.
Usage
In classical ghazal, it frequently evokes a lover or beloved abruptly jarred awake by a distressing dream or a sudden rustle in the night.
Examples
Woke up startled by the sigh of the night
Awakened abruptly from a deep slumber
Synonyms
हड़बड़ानासहमनाबिदकना
Related Words
चौंकनाचौंकानाचौकन्ना