The correct spelling of the phrase "dost one best" is "doth one's best". In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be /dʌð wʌnz bɛst/. "Dost" is an archaic form of "doth", which means "does", and "one's" is the possessive form of "one". Therefore, the phrase means "does one's best". This phrase is often used to encourage or motivate someone to perform their best, despite the difficulty or challenge of the task at hand.
"Dost one best" is an older English phrase that combines archaic and poetic language. It can be broken down into two parts: "dost" and "one best."
"Dost" is the second person singular form of the verb "do" in Middle English, often associated with Early Modern English Elizabethan literature. It is an outdated form of the verb "do," indicating action or performance. It is derived from the Old English word "dōst," which is used to express the concept of "to do."
"One best" refers to the act or condition of being the finest or most excellent. The word "one" here functions as an adjective, meaning "single" or "singular." "Best" is the superlative form of the adjective "good," indicating the highest level of quality, superiority, or excellence.
Therefore, "dost one best" can be understood as an archaic way of saying "you do the very best" or "you accomplish the utmost excellence." It suggests the notion of giving one's utmost effort or performing at the highest level possible.
This phrase might be found in older English literature, particularly in poems or plays. It represents a poetic and somewhat formal style of expression, typical of the Elizabethan era, and encapsulates the idea of striving for excellence and giving one's absolute best in a given context or endeavor.