Word Meaning
हँसते
hanste
hiverb (participle)
Meaning
Laughing, smiling, or mocking.
Detailed Meaning
The present participle of the verb 'hansna' (to laugh or smile). In this couplet, it describes the beloved laughing or mocking at the sight of the lover crying in deep grief. It creates an ironic contrast between the beloved's cruel amusement and the lover's suffering.
Etymology
Sanskrit 'hasati' (हसति) via Prakrit 'hasai' to Old Hindi/Hindustani 'hansna'.
Usage
In ghazal poetry, 'hansna' often forms a poetic contrast with 'rona' (weeping) to convey the beloved's indifference or teasing cruelty.
Examples
Hanste hanste aabdeeda ho gaye
Gham mein bhi hanste rahe log
Synonyms
मुस्कुरातेखिलखिलाते
Related Words
हँसीमुस्कानहँसमुख