सर-ब-मेह्र

Meaning

Sealed, stamped shut, fastened securely, or kept strictly closed.

Detailed Meaning

Literally meaning sealed at the top or head, this Persian compound describes letters, vessels, or secrets that remain unopened and inviolate under a seal. In Ghalib's couplet, it qualifies 'chashm-posheedan' (deliberate turning away of the eyes or feigned blindness), describing an etiquette so strict that the gaze is completely and formally sealed shut. It reflects deliberate reticence, decorum, and suppressed feeling.

Etymology

Persian compound formed from 'sar' (head, top) + 'ba' (with, by) + 'muhr' (seal, stamp).

Usage

Commonly used in classical ghazal poetry to describe unopened missives, confidential secrets, or tightly sealed lips.

Examples

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Related Words