The phrase "hadst affection for" is an archaic form of saying "you had affection for". The word "hadst" is pronounced as "hædst" in IPA phonetic transcription, with the "a" sound as in "cat" and the "st" sound as in "post". It is the second person singular past tense form of the verb "have", which was commonly used in Shakespearean English. While this form of the verb is no longer used in modern English, it can add a sense of nostalgia or historical context when used in literature or poetry.
"Hadst affection for" is a phrase derived from the Old English language. It consists of two parts: "hadst," which is the second person singular past tense of the verb "to have," and "affection," which refers to a strong feeling of fondness, warmth, or care towards someone or something.
When used together, the phrase "hadst affection for" suggests that an individual possessed or experienced a profound and genuine attachment or love for a person, object, or even an idea in the past. The inclusion of the word "hadst" implies that the affection described occurred at a specific point in time, indicating that it might no longer be present in the present moment.
The phrase is often encountered in literary or poetic contexts, as it has an archaic and somewhat formal tone. It is commonly found in works from the 16th to the 18th centuries when Old English was widely used. The expression "hadst affection for" is symbolic of a deep emotional bond or connection between individuals. It encompasses a range of sentiments, such as tenderness, endearment, caring, or nostalgia.
Overall, "hadst affection for" conveys the idea of a powerful and genuine feeling of love or fondness that an individual possessed in the past, emphasizing the significance and strength of their emotions towards a particular person, item, or concept.