Word Meaning
शाल
shāl
hinoun
Meaning
A shawl, woollen wrap, or warm mantle worn over shoulders.
Detailed Meaning
In classical poetry, 'shāl' refers to a woven woollen wrap or mantle traditionally worn for warmth. In this couplet, it serves as an inventive metaphor where even the spring cloud is depicted as wearing a shawl because of the cold indifference ('sard-mehrī') radiating from the rose-faced beloved. The imagery playfully personifies nature reacting to human emotion.
Etymology
From Persian شال (shāl), denoting a woven fabric or wrap of fine wool.
Usage
In ghazal poetry, it is often used metaphorically for dark clouds, winter, or a modest protective covering.
Examples
Wrapped in a dark shawl against the chill of parting
The evening sky wore a grey shawl of clouds
Synonyms
दुशालालोईचादर
Related Words
सर्द-मेहरीओढ़नीलिबास