Word Meaning
ठहरे
thahre
Meaning
To stay, stop, withstand, or remain firm.
Detailed Meaning
In classical poetry, 'thahre' often appears in the archaic present tense construction 'thahre hai' (meaning 'does it stay?' or 'can it withstand?'). In this couplet, it is used rhetorically to signify that just as a fragile piece of straw cannot resist a violent deluge, the speaker's eyelashes could not withstand the torrent of tears. It emphasizes helplessness and fragility in the face of overpowering emotion.
Etymology
From Sanskrit 'स्था' (sthā, to stand, stay) through Prakrit into Hindustani 'ठहरना'.
Usage
In classical ghazal, it frequently describes enduring patience, the inability of things to withstand tears, or the heart's transient halting.
Examples
Can a frail straw stay firm before a surging flood?
If only the restless heart would find a place to stay.