Word Meaning
हँसी
hansi
hinoun, feminine
Meaning
Laughter, smile, amusement, or mockery.
Detailed Meaning
Refers to laughter, mirth, or an ironic smile at life's ironies. In this couplet, it represents the speaker's former ability to look at his own ruined heart with self-mockery or amusement. The absence of this laughter highlights an emotional numbness and the ultimate stage of grief where even despair cannot provoke a reaction.
Etymology
Derived from Sanskrit 'हास्य' (hāsya) / root 'हस्' (has, to laugh), via Prakrit 'हस्स' (hassa).
Usage
In classical Urdu poetry, laughter (हँसी / ہنسی) is often contrasted with weeping (रोना / رونا) or used ironically to disguise deep melancholy.
Examples
A faint smile concealed behind sorrow
Neither tears remain now nor laughter
Synonyms
मुसकानतबस्सुमख़ंदाउपहास
Related Words
हँसनाहँसोड़मुस्कुराना