Word Meaning
शोख़ी
shokhii
Meaning
Playfulness, mischievous charm, coquetry, boldness, or vivacity.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Urdu poetics, 'shokhi' denotes a captivating blend of mischievousness, brisk vivacity, and coquettish boldness in the beloved's demeanor. In this couplet, it appears in the compound 'shokhi-e-naaz' (the lively playfulness of alluring grace), contrasting dynamic coyness with the stunned immobility of the onlooker or mirror. It conveys both an aesthetic charm and a destabilizing power that overwhelms the seer.
Etymology
Persian 'shūkh' (playful, insolent, wanton) + abstract noun suffix '-ī'.
Usage
Frequently paired in the ghazal with 'naaz' or 'chashm' to portray the charming yet ruthless playful coquetry of the beloved.
Examples
shokhi-e-tehreer (playfulness of writing/style)
shokhi-e-guftaar (mischievous or lively speech)