Word Meaning
लीं
līñ
Meaning
Took, adopted, or undertook (past tense feminine plural of 'to take').
Detailed Meaning
In this couplet, 'लीं' functions as the past feminine plural verb agreeing with the noun 'तदबीरें' (measures/remedies). It conveys the act of adopting or attempting numerous plans to mend the torn collar of the lover. The poet laments that despite all the measures undertaken by moral counselors, the garment could not remain intact.
Etymology
Sanskrit 'लभते' (labhate) / Prakrit 'लहइ' (lahaï) evolving into Hindustani 'लेना' (lenā).
Usage
In classical Urdu poetry, 'लेना' is frequently combined with feminine abstract nouns like 'तदबीर', 'सलाह', or 'बला' to denote undergoing, performing, or adopting actions.
Examples
Unkī bātoñ ne dil meñ jagah līñ
Usne hāthoñ meñ zulf-e-yār kī koshisheñ līñ
