Word Meaning
शर्मा
sharmā
Meaning
To feel shy, bashful, or modest; to hesitate out of coyness.
Detailed Meaning
In poetry, this verb indicates the act of becoming coy, bashful, or self-conscious out of modesty or love. In the cited couplet, the compound verb 'आँख शर्मा जाना' denotes the beloved lowering her gaze or showing sudden romantic shyness specifically before the poet. It captures delicate feminine modesty that secretly signals emotional intimacy.
Etymology
Derived from Persian 'sharm' (شرم, meaning shame or modesty), adapted into Hindustani with the verbal suffix '-ānā'.
Usage
In classical ghazal, the beloved's sudden shyness—especially in the eyes—is revered as a silent confession of mutual affection.
Examples
She averted her eyes with modest hesitation upon his arrival.
A fleeting shyness touched her face in the crowded gathering.