लेवे

Meaning

Takes, receives, or derives (archaic subjunctive form of to take).

Detailed Meaning

In classical Urdu and Rekhta, 'leve' serves as an archaic third-person singular subjunctive or conditional form of the verb 'lena' (to take). In this couplet by Ghalib, it conveys the idea of deriving or absorbing moisture ('tarawat') from the verdant facial down of the beloved. Without absorbing that freshness, the mirror is imagined as vulnerable to being consumed by the fiery beauty of the beloved's face.

Etymology

Sanskrit 'लभते' (labhate) via Prakrit to early Hindavi/Braj 'लेवै' (levai), entering classical Urdu as 'लेवे' (lewe).

Usage

Widely used in classical Rekhta and early Urdu poetry as the third-person subjunctive form before being largely superseded by 'le' in modern standard Urdu.

Examples

Synonyms

Related Words