خوردن

خوردن is one of Persian's deepest native verbs, traceable to Old Persian *kharda- through Middle Persian. The metaphorical extensions are a window into how Persian conceptualizes consumption. To "eat defeat" (شکست خوردن) is to take a loss. To "eat regret" (افسوس خوردن) is to feel sorry. To "eat stress" (حرص خوردن) is to be anxious. English uses "take" or "feel" for these. Persian reaches for "eat." The pattern reflects a worldview where emotional and physical experiences both pass through the body. Iranian table culture also shapes the verb: a host insists "بخور!" (eat!) at every meal, often pushing food onto a guest's plate. Refusing requires the polite phrase نه ممنون, سیرم (no thanks, I'm full), said two or three times before it sticks.