The phrase "hadst ones nose grindstone" is a colloquial expression that means to be diligent and focused on a task or goal. The spelling can be broken down phonetically using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as hædst wʌnz noʊz ɡraɪndstoʊn, with the stressed syllables on "hadst," "nose," and "grindstone." The "st" at the end of "hadst" and "grindstone" is a remnant from Middle English, reflecting the past tense conjugation of the verb "to have" as "hadst," which was later replaced by "had."
The phrase "hadst ones nose grindstone" is an idiomatic expression that originates from an English proverb: "To have one's nose to the grindstone". While the traditional idiomatic phrasing is "to have one’s nose to the grindstone," "hadst ones nose grindstone" is a variant of the expression that uses archaic language.
In this phrase, the word "hadst" is a contraction of "had" and "thou," which was used in older forms of English as the second-person singular pronoun. "Nose" refers to the anatomical feature located on the front of the face, specifically the protruding part that functions as the primary organ of smell. A "grindstone" is a rotating solid stone wheel used for sharpening or shaping objects or tools made of metal.
When combined, the phrase metaphorically portrays someone placing his or her nose directly on a spinning grindstone wheel. This figurative expression is used to convey the idea of intense and dedicated hard work, persistence, and diligence in one's task or occupation. It signifies the willingness to endure physical and mental strain, as well as to make sacrifices in order to achieve a particular goal or complete a task.
"Having one's nose to the grindstone" implies a state of working diligently, staying focused, and being dedicated to achieving success or excellence. It emphasizes the idea of constantly striving, exerting effort, and being fully engaged with one's work.