Word Meaning
लड़ाईं
laṛāīñ
Meaning
Fought; brought together or made to clash (eyes).
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu grammar, 'laṛāīñ' is the feminine plural past-tense form agreeing with 'āñkheñ' (eyes). In this couplet, it refers to the amorous idiom 'āñkheñ laṛānā' (to lock eyes or fall in love), playfully contrasted with the lover's militant disposition ('jang-jū') and ensuing quarrels. It encapsulates both romantic glance-matching and continuous conflict.
Etymology
Hindustani, causative of 'laṛnā' (लड़ना), tracing to Old Indo-Aryan / Prakrit roots signifying conflict or sporting engagement.
Usage
In ghazal poetry, it is primarily used in the idiom 'āñkheñ laṛānā' to evoke the double-edged sword of romantic attraction and amorous strife.
Examples
Ever since we locked eyes, all peace of mind was lost.
She clashed glances with such grace across the gathering.