Word Meaning
पोंछ
ponchh
Meaning
To wipe, clean, or dry away moisture.
Detailed Meaning
In this couplet, 'पोंछ' is used as an imperative verb meaning to wipe away or pat dry the sweat gathered on the face. The poet addresses the beloved, asking them to gently wipe their sweat-dripping face instead of growing warm or agitated. It draws an intimate comparison between sweeping away drops of perspiration and extracting rosewater from a fresh rose blossom.
Etymology
Derived from Sanskrit प्रोञ्छति (proñchati, 'to wipe, rub out') through Prakrit पुंछइ (puṃchaï) into Hindustani पोंछना / پونچھنا۔
Usage
In classical ghazal poetry, it frequently appears in contexts of tender intimacy, specifically the wiping away of tears (अश्क) or sweat (अरक़).
Examples
Wipe the tears of sorrow from your lashes.
Wipe the drops of dew from the garden rose.