Word Meaning
तके
take
hiverb
Meaning
Watches, gazes intently, or waits expectantly along a path.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu and Hindustani poetry, 'तके' is an inflected form of the verb 'तकना', conveying an intense, prolonged gaze often born of yearning. In this couplet, 'राह तके हैं' describes an endless, wakeful vigil where the lover's open eyes persistently watch the road in anticipation of the beloved.
Etymology
Hindustani / Prakrit origin, rooted in the colloquial verb taknā (to gaze, await, look intently).
Usage
In ghazal poetry, it most commonly appears in the idiom 'राह तकना' to symbolize the lover's patient and sorrowful vigil for the beloved.
Examples
Sitting by the doorstep, watching the road day and night.
Tired eyes still watching the distant path in longing.
Synonyms
देखेनिहारेताके
Related Words
तकनाराह देखनाइंतज़ारदीद