हंस

Meaning

Smile or laugh; imperative form of smiling/laughing.

Detailed Meaning

In classical Urdu poetry, 'hans' is commonly the imperative or stem of the verb 'hansnā' (to laugh or smile). In this couplet, the lover pleads with the beloved to smile a little ('tuk ik hans') at his weeping, so that their bright, flashing teeth may be seen like lightning. It should not be confused here with the Sanskrit-derived noun for a swan.

Etymology

Sanskrit 'hasati' (हसति) via Prakrit 'hasaï', leading to Hindi-Urdu 'hansnā' (हँसना / ہنسنا).

Usage

In ghazal poetry, the beloved's smile (hansnā/tabassum) is frequently linked to the flash of lightning revealing pearl-like teeth.

Examples

Synonyms

Related Words