Word Meaning
बोल
bol
Meaning
To speak, talk, or utter; here used imperatively as 'do not speak'.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Hindustani poetry, 'bol' functions primarily as a verb root or imperative form meaning to speak, utter, or break silence. In this couplet, it appears in the negative imperative ('तू तो न बोल') addressing the unopened flower-bud (ghuncha), scolding it not to open its petals or mimic the beloved's fragrant mouth. The poet plays upon the metaphorical resemblance between the blooming of a bud and the opening of lips to speak.
Etymology
Sanskrit bolayati / Prakrit bollaï, leading to Old Hindi and Hindustani bolnā.
Usage
Commonly employed in the ghazal to dramatize dialogues of lovers or to contrast speech with expressive silence.
Examples
Do not speak while being so displeased.
Say something at last after this long silence.