Word Meaning
शित्ताब
shittaab
hinoun / adjective
Meaning
Swift, quick, or haste; moving rapidly like a flash.
Detailed Meaning
In classical Persian and Urdu poetry, 'shitaab' denotes speed, haste, or fleeting swiftness. In the given couplet, it forms the compound 'barq-e-shitaab' (swift or fleeting lightning), symbolizing the brief and ephemeral nature of human life. The poet warns that youth and time vanish as quickly as a flash of lightning, leaving no room for delay.
Etymology
Persian 'شتاب' (shitāb), meaning haste, speed, or hurry.
Usage
In ghazal poetry, 'shitaab' often pairs with lightning ('barq') or the passing of breath to emphasize the transience of life and the urgency of action or love.
Examples
Barq-e-shitaab ki tarah ye zamaana guzar gaya
Chalo shitaab ki fursat-e-zindagi kam hai
Synonyms
तेज़ीजल्दीशीघ्रताउतावली
Related Words
शताबीशताब-कारबरक़-ए-शताब