Word Meaning
सर-ता-क़दम
sar-tā-qadam
Meaning
From head to toe; entirely; completely.
Detailed Meaning
A Persian compound meaning from head to foot, conveying total physical or emotional surrender. In this couplet, it illustrates how the poet's entire existence was completely immersed in the longing for prostration before the beloved, like dew vanishing into the morning sun. It represents unreserved and absolute devotion across the whole body and soul.
Etymology
Persian compound composed of 'sar' (head) + 'tā' (until, up to) + Arabic 'qadam' (foot/step).
Usage
Frequently used in classical Urdu poetry both to portray the beloved's head-to-toe beauty and to signify the lover's absolute devotion or misery.
Examples
From head to toe, he was transformed into an embodiment of prayer.
She looked exquisite from head to foot.