The phrase "hadst a bad name" is spelled using Middle English orthography, which greatly differs from modern English spelling. The word "hadst" is the second person singular past tense form of the verb "have" and is pronounced as /hædst/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "st" at the end of the word signifies that it is a second person singular form. This phrase, which means to have a bad reputation, was commonly used during the Middle Ages and can be found in various Old English texts.
"Hadst a bad name" is an archaic phrase derived from Middle English that appears in the past tense of "have a bad name." It is used to describe a situation in which someone or something is widely known or recognized for having a negative reputation or being viewed unfavorably by others.
When someone or something "hadst a bad name," it means that they were plagued by a tarnished reputation, often due to perceived wrongdoing, scandal, or disreputable behavior. This negative reputation may have been earned through past actions or by association with undesirable individuals or circumstances.
The phrase suggests that the person or entity has been subjected to criticism, gossip, or the spreading of unfavorable opinions, leading to a widespread belief in their infamy or disfavorable character. The bad name may result in social stigmatization, distrust, or a general lack of credibility.
Having a bad name can prove detrimental to a person's or organization's success, as it can hinder opportunities, thwart positive relationships, and limit trust from others. However, it is important to note that the phrase is archaic and not widely used in modern language. Nowadays, one might instead refer to someone's tarnished reputation or negative image to convey similar meaning.