शना

Meaning

Swimming; floating; the act or ability of swimming.

Detailed Meaning

In Persian and classical Urdu poetry, 'shana' refers to swimming or floating upon water. In Ghalib's verse, it forms the Persian compound 'dil-o-dast-e-shana' (the courage and arms needed for swimming), describing the duck-shaped wine flagon ('bat-e-may') navigating the rising wave of wine. It metaphorically evokes daring navigation across an overwhelming ocean of passion or sorrow.

Etymology

Persian (شنا / shinā), meaning swimming or floating.

Usage

Frequently found in classical ghazals within Persian izafat constructions to signify traversing turbulent seas of love or destiny.

Examples

Synonyms

Related Words