Word Meaning
ज़बान
zabaan
hinoun
Meaning
Tongue; voice, speech, or language.
Detailed Meaning
Literally referring to the physical tongue, 'zabaan' commonly symbolizes speech, voice, and the power of articulation in classical poetry. In this couplet, it represents the act of speaking up or answering back before the beloved, where even attempting to speak invites severe punishment or forced silencing.
Etymology
Persian 'zabān' (زبان), from Middle Persian 'uzwān'.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'zabaan' is frequently invoked to contrast eloquence with enforced silence, loyalty, and the agony of unspoken grief.
Examples
Silent when accused, the tongue refuses to speak.
A bittersweet utterance slipped from the tongue.
Synonyms
जीभवाणीगोयाईरसना
Related Words
ज़बान-दराज़ज़बान-ए-हालबे-ज़बान