Word Meaning
चाल
chāl
hinoun, feminine
Meaning
Gait, pace, graceful movement, or manner of walking.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu and Hindi poetry, 'chaal' denotes the manner, grace, or pace of walking. In this specific couplet, it describes a swift, direct, and forceful motion likened to an arrow released from a taut bow. The imagery evokes how the beloved's striking movement instantly and deeply pierces the lover's heart.
Etymology
Derived from Sanskrit 'चलन' (chalana) / 'चाल' (chāla, movement), transitioning through Prakrit into Hindustani.
Usage
In classical ghazals, 'chaal' is often invoked to describe the bewitching, coy, or deadly elegance of the beloved's walk.
Examples
A gait like an arrow loosed from a bow
Bewitched by her graceful pace
Synonyms
रफ़्तारख़िरामगतिअंदाज़
Related Words
चलनक़दमरविशठसक