Word Meaning
तआ'रुफ़
Ta'aruf
Meaning
Acquaintance, mutual recognition, or introduction.
Detailed Meaning
In Urdu poetry, 'ta'aruf' signifies mutual acquaintance, familiarity, or social connection. In this couplet, it underscores the profound alienation felt by a captive who returns to the garden after a lifetime, questioning what recognition or acquaintance could possibly remain with its inhabitants. The word reflects how time and separation dissolve even the most intimate bonds.
Etymology
Arabic verbal noun from the root 'ʿ-r-f' (ع-ر-ف), belonging to Form VI (tafā'ul), conveying mutual knowledge or acquaintance.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'ta'aruf' is often invoked to emphasize either the tentative start of romance or the melancholic loss of familiarity between separated lovers and companions.
Examples
An old acquaintance revived after years of separation.
No trace of acquaintance remained in stranger eyes.