Word Meaning
दम
dam
hinoun, masculine
Meaning
Breath, life, vitality, or endurance.
Detailed Meaning
In classical poetry, 'dam' primarily denotes breath or the vital life force. In this specific couplet, it occurs in the idiom of holding or steadying one's breath ('दम साधना') during deep grief. It evokes physical endurance, disciplined silence, and inner emotional control while uttering a sigh of despair.
Etymology
Persian 'dam' (دم), meaning breath, moment, life, or edge.
Usage
Commonly invoked in ghazals to evoke the ephemeral nature of life, endurance in love, or the final departing sigh of a dying lover.
Examples
To hold one's breath in prolonged silence
A lover faithful until the very last breath
Synonyms
साँसप्राणनफ़सहयात
Related Words
दम-ब-खुददम भरनादम-ए-वापसीं