Word Meaning
बर्राक़ी
barraaqi
Meaning
Brilliance, dazzling brightness, polish, or gleaming luster.
Detailed Meaning
The term denotes an intense shine, radiant polish, or luminous clarity, derived from the state of being glossy or glittering. In the given couplet, it refers to the artificial, external brilliance or sheen that modern European civilization displays through mechanical power. It contrasts superficial shine with genuine internal substance.
Etymology
Arabic, derived from the root b-r-q (ب-ر-ق), related to lightning and shining; formed as an abstract noun from 'barrāq' (dazzling, gleaming).
Usage
In classical Urdu poetry, it is frequently used to describe either the razor-sharp polish of a blade or an arresting, showy brilliance.
Examples
The polished mirror lost its gleaming luster under the veil of dust.
His poetry possesses a sharp brilliance that dazzles every eye.