Word Meaning
मुंतज़र
Muntazir
Meaning
Waiting, expectant, looking forward with anticipation.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetry, 'muntazir' refers to someone eagerly or agonizingly awaiting the arrival of the beloved. In this couplet, it describes the lover's watchful eye ('chashm-e-muntazir') fixed endlessly upon the road in longing. It captures the painful suspension of hope sustained across long periods of separation.
Etymology
Arabic (مُنْتَظِر), active participle from the Form VIII verb 'intazara' (to wait, anticipate), derived from the root n-z-r (ن-ظ-ر) meaning to see, look, or behold.
Usage
In the ghazal, it is most often compounded with 'chashm' (eye) or 'dil' (heart) to portray the lover perpetually looking out for the beloved's return.
Examples
An expectant eye fixed upon the doorway.
A restless heart waiting for the promised union.