Word Meaning
छेद
chhed
Meaning
A hole, puncture, perforation, or wound made by piercing.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu and Hindustani verse, 'chhed' denotes a perforation or puncture, frequently symbolizing the piercing effect of the beloved's gaze. In the provided couplet, the reduplicated phrase 'chhed chhed' depicts the liver or heart being pierced through and through, effectively riddled with holes by glances from half-closed eyelashes. It captures the visceral imagery of severe emotional torment treated as physical perforation.
Etymology
From Sanskrit छिद्र (chidra, 'hole, opening') via Prakrit, developing into Hindustani چھید / छेद (chhed).
Usage
In ghazal poetry, it is frequently employed in reduplicated form ('छेद-छेद') to emphasize the image of the heart or liver being rendered completely porous by the arrows of the beloved's glance.
Examples
His heart was pierced with holes by cruel fate.
A single sharp glance left a piercing wound in my soul.