Ajnabi

Ajnabi (اَجْنَبِی) is a word of Persian and Urdu origin, meaning a stranger, foreigner, or someone unknown. The term carries a nuanced connotation often including the feeling of unfamiliarity or alienation. It describes an individual who is not part of one's immediate social circle, community, or family.

In broader contexts, "ajnabi" can also denote something that is foreign, alien, or unfamiliar. It is often used in literature, poetry, and common parlance to evoke feelings of distance, separation, and a lack of connection. The word highlights the difference between "us" and "them", emphasizing the outsider status of the person or thing being described.

The degree of formality associated with the term can vary. While generally neutral, its usage can sometimes carry a negative connotation depending on the context and the speaker's intention, potentially implying suspicion or distrust toward the stranger. Conversely, it can also simply be a descriptive term devoid of any judgmental undertones.

The word is frequently encountered in South Asian cultures and communities where Persian and Urdu languages have influence. It is a useful term in conversations and writings that explore themes of identity, belonging, and cultural difference.