Word Meaning
तन्नाज़
tannāz
Meaning
Coquettish, flirtatious, teasing, or playfully seductive.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Persian and Urdu poetry, 'tannāz' characterizes a beloved whose allure is defined by coquetry, teasing pride, and playful mockery. Within this couplet, 'but-e-tannāz' represents the flirtatious, haughty idol whose graceful presence in the rival's embrace evokes both beauty and agony. It emphasizes not just physical charm, but an attitude of alluring, deliberate indifference.
Etymology
Derived from Arabic root ط-ن-ز (ṭ-n-z, meaning to tease, mock, or banter), formed on the intensive agentive measure fa‘‘āl (فَعَّال).
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, it is frequently combined as the compound 'but-e-tannāz' to evoke the classic archetype of the mercilessly charming and flirtatious beloved.
Examples
That flirtatious idol passed by without casting a glance.
A single coquettish gesture captured the entire assembly.