Word Meaning
छुपती
chhuptī
Meaning
Hiding, remaining concealed, or staying hidden (feminine singular form).
Detailed Meaning
'Chhuptī' is the feminine imperfective participle of the verb 'chhupnā', meaning to hide or remain concealed. In this couplet, it governs the feminine subject 'nigah-e-shauq' (the longing gaze), conveying that the ardent lover's eyes cannot mask their secret desire. Classical ghazal poetry frequently treats the lover's glance, tears, or sighs as involuntary betrayers of love that cannot be kept hidden.
Etymology
Derived from Old Indo-Aryan / Middle Indo-Aryan Prakrit root *chupp- (to remain silent or hidden).
Usage
In classical Urdu ghazal, it is often paired with negative particles to emphasize that internal passions, tears, and longing eyes are impossible to conceal from the beloved or society.
Examples
The secret of love never stays hidden.
A restless gaze cannot be concealed behind veils.