Pronunciation: [hˈadst ɐ hˈə͡ʊld əpˌɒn] (IPA) 
"Have" is a common English verb, but "hadst" might be less familiar. This archaic form means "had" in the second person singular, and is pronounced /hædst/. The phrase "hadst a hold upon" means you had a grip on something or someone, and is pronounced /ˈhædst ə hoʊld əˈpɒn/. The use of archaic language can add flavor to writing, but it's also important to make sure the meaning is clear to modern readers.
There is no specific dictionary definition for the phrase "hadst a hold upon" as it is an archaic construction. However, we can analyze the meaning by breaking down the phrase into its individual components.
1. "Hadst": This is the archaic second-person singular past tense of the verb "have." It means "you had" or "you possessed" in older forms of English.
2. "A": This is an indefinite article used before a noun. It indicates that the speaker is referring to any single instance of the noun.
3. "Hold": This is a verb that means to grasp, possess, or have control over something or someone.
4. "Upon": This is a preposition that indicates a relationship of contact or connection. It means "on" or "in contact with."
Therefore, combining these components, "hadst a hold upon" can be understood to mean that someone possessed or had acquired control over something or someone. It implies a strong grip or influence over the subject of the phrase.
It's important to note that this phrase is rarely used in contemporary English, and you are more likely to encounter it in literary works or poetry from older periods.
