The spelling of "dost battle" may seem confusing at first, but it can be explained through the use of IPA phonetic transcription. The word "dost" is pronounced as /dʌst/, with the "o" being pronounced as an unstressed "uh" sound. "Battle" is pronounced as /ˈbæt.l̩/, with the "t" being silent and the "a" pronounced as a short "a" sound. Together, "dost battle" is pronounced as /dʌst ˈbæt.l̩/. This unique spelling and pronunciation is indicative of the Old English origins of the phrase.
The phrase "dost battle" is an archaic term that combines two concepts, "dost" and "battle," to convey a specific meaning. "Dost" is the archaic second-person singular present tense form of the verb "do," primarily used in Early Modern English. In this context, it refers to an action performed or an event happening in the present.
The word "battle" generally refers to a violent or intense confrontation between opposing forces or individuals, often within a military or combat setting. It signifies a fight or conflict characterized by struggle, exertion, and competition.
Therefore, when combined, "dost battle" could be understood as an old-fashioned way of saying "do battle" or "engage in combat." It emphasizes an active involvement in a fight, suggesting that the subject is currently involved in or about to participate in a battle or struggle against an adversary.
Although this phrase is no longer commonly used in modern English, it could be encountered in historic texts or literature written in older versions of the language, such as the works of William Shakespeare or other authors from the 16th or 17th centuries.