Word Meaning
मर्द-अफ़गन
mard-afgan
Meaning
Man-overthrowing, vanquishing the brave, exceedingly potent or overpowering.
Detailed Meaning
Literally meaning 'one that throws down men', this Persian compound signifies something so formidable that it overpowers even the strongest champions. In Ghalib's verse, it qualifies the heady wine of love ('mai-e mard-afgan-e ishq'), emphasizing that passion is a devastating test which ordinary suitors cannot withstand.
Etymology
Persian compound formed from 'mard' (man, hero) and 'afgan' (present stem of 'afgandan', meaning to cast down or overthrow).
Usage
Commonly used in classical ghazal as an epithet for intoxicating wine or the devastating trial of love that humbles proud lovers.
Examples
A single sip of that man-overthrowing wine.
Facing the man-vanquishing trials of destiny.