Word Meaning
बद-मआ'श
bad-ma'āsh
Meaning
A rogue, scoundrel, or person of bad character and dubious living.
Detailed Meaning
Literally denoting one with an evil means of living or corrupt conduct, the term signifies a rogue, knave, or deceitful person. In this couplet by Mir, it is used reprovingly yet intimately to describe the unfaithful, fickle beloved whose promises cannot be trusted. The poet warns himself to secure full assurances before yielding his heart to such an unscrupulous partner.
Etymology
Compound of Persian 'bad' (bad, evil) and Arabic 'ma'āsh' (livelihood, way of life).
Usage
In classical Urdu ghazal, poets sometimes apply this harsh epithet playfully or bitterly to an elusive, oath-breaking beloved.
Examples
Trusting that rogue cost the lover his peace.
A fragile heart surrendered to a charming scoundrel.