Word Meaning
सैद-फ़गन
said-fagan
Meaning
Hunter, slayer of prey; metaphorically, a charming beloved who captivates lovers.
Detailed Meaning
A Persian compound composed of 'said' (prey or game) and 'fagan' (from fagan-dan, to throw down or fell), literally meaning one who fells game or a skilled hunter. In classical Urdu ghazal poetry, it is standard imagery applied to the beloved whose glances and beauty target, wound, and ensnare lovers like prey. In the context of this sher, the poet addresses the beloved as the hunter whose arrows of disdain or coquetry have completely pierced the lover's heart.
Etymology
Arabic 'صَيْد' (ṣayd, game/prey/hunt) + Persian 'فگن' (fagan, stem of fagandan/afgandan, to cast down, strike, fell).
Usage
Commonly invoked in classical Urdu ghazals alongside the imagery of تیر (arrow), کمان (bow), and بسمل (wounded prey) to symbolize the beloved's devastating charm.
Examples
The arrows of the cruel hunter spared no soul.
Bewitched by the gaze of that enchanting hunter.