بسم

Core meaning

To smile: to let the pleasure received from a word or a sight show on the face, without breaking into laughter.

Uses

1. تَبَسَّمَ → "to smile" : form V tells of the smile that forms and spreads over the face.

   • «فَتَبَسَّمَ ضَاحِكًۭا مِّن قَوْلِهَا» — "He smiled, amused at her saying" (27:19)

Evidence from the text

A single occurrence. In 27:19, Sulayman hears the ant warn her own; the smile comes first, laughter prolongs it (ضَاحِكًا), then gratitude: "My Guardian, inspire me to be grateful for Your blessing which You have granted me". The smile welcomes a right word; it does not mock.

Distinctions

• ضحك — laughter, which may mock or rejoice; تَبَسَّمَ is its first sign, restrained and kindly.