Word Meaning
नीम-कश
nīm-kash
Meaning
Half-drawn (as a bow) or half-pulled; fired with incomplete force.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'nīm-kash' literally refers to an arrow released from a bow drawn only halfway, resulting in a weak or errant flight. In this couplet by Iqbal, 'tīr-e-nīm-kash' symbolizes unfulfilled potential, an effort made without conviction, or an undirected weapon launched without a clear target. It evokes a sense of tragic futility and incomplete resolution.
Etymology
Persian: 'nīm' (half) + 'kash' (present stem of kashīdan, to pull or draw).
Usage
Frequently paired with 'tīr' (arrow) or 'kamān' (bow) to symbolize an incomplete glance of the beloved or a futile, half-hearted attempt.
Examples
An arrow half-drawn from the bow rarely hits the mark.
Alas for the sigh that remains half-drawn in the chest.