Word Meaning
नामर्द
naamard
hinoun / adjective
Meaning
Cowardly; lacking valor or courage; unmanly or ineffectual person.
Detailed Meaning
Literally denoting someone lacking virility or manhood, in classical poetry it signifies a coward or someone totally devoid of moral and physical courage. In this couplet, Ghalib uses it satirically to expose arrogant, wealthy men whose hollow valor is confined only to stepping on woven lions depicted on floor carpets.
Etymology
Persian compound formed from the negative prefix 'nā-' (not/without) and 'mard' (man, brave person).
Usage
Commonly employed in Urdu poetry as a sharp insult to contrast empty posturing with genuine gallantry and spiritual fortitude.
Examples
A coward boasts only in the absence of danger.
In the trial of battle, the faint-hearted turned away.
Synonyms
बुज़दिलकायरकम-हिम्मतडरपोक
Related Words
मर्दमर्दानगीनामर्दीहिम्मत