Word Meaning
नख़्ल
nakhl
hinoun
Meaning
A tree, especially a date palm; a sapling or plant.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu and Persian poetry, 'nakhl' denotes a tree, particularly a palm tree or a slender sapling. In the context of the couplet, it appears in the compound 'nakhl-e-khushk' (withered/dry tree), symbolizing utter barrenness, sorrow, and fruitlessness. The speaker likens themselves to a dry tree in a garden that yields neither shade nor fruit.
Etymology
Arabic (نَخْل / nakhl), meaning date palm tree or palm grove.
Usage
In the ghazal tradition, 'nakhl' often appears metaphorically representing youth, stature of the beloved ('nakhl-e-qad'), or barren sorrow ('nakhl-e-khushk').
Examples
like a withered tree in a desolate garden
the verdant sapling of hope
Synonyms
दरख़्तशजरपेड़बूटा
Related Words
नख़्लिस्ताननख़्ल-ए-मातमसमरशाख़