Pronunciation: [haθ kwˈɑːmz] (IPA) 
The phrase "hath qualms" is spelled with the silent "h" at the beginning of the word "hath" to indicate that it is the archaic and formal version of "has." "Qualms" is pronounced with a "kw" sound at the beginning due to the "qu" digraph, followed by the short "a" sound and then the "ms" sound at the end. The correct transcription of the word in IPA would be /hæθ kwɑmz/. This phrase means "has doubts or misgivings."
"Hath qualms" is an archaic phrase derived from Old English that combines the verb "hath," an obsolete form of the verb "has," and the noun "qualms." The phrase can be roughly translated as "has reservations," implying a certain hesitation or unease about something.
"Qualms" refers to feelings of doubt, uneasiness, or uncertainty about a particular action, decision, or situation. It often suggests a moral or ethical hesitation, a sense of unease or apprehension about the rightness or wrongness of something. Qualms can arise from conflicting values, concerns about potential consequences, or internal moral conflict.
When someone "hath qualms," they experience doubts or reservations about a specific matter, indicating an internal struggle or hesitation. This phrase typically suggests a deeper level of introspection or self-reflection, showing that the person is weighing the potential implications or consequences before making a decision or taking action.
The term "hath qualms" is now considered outdated and archaic, rarely used in contemporary language. However, its meaning persists in more modern expressions like "having qualms," "having second thoughts," or "feeling uneasy about." These phrases convey a similar sense of hesitation, uncertainty, or moral dilemma, reflecting an individual's inner conflict as they strive to make the right choice.
The phrase "hath qualms" consists of two parts: "hath" and "qualms".
"Hath" is the archaic form of the verb "have" in the third person singular present tense. It was commonly used in Middle English and Early Modern English, but is mostly obsolete in contemporary usage.
The word "qualms" originated from the Middle English word "qualme", which meant "sickness" or "disease". It was derived from the Old English word "cealm", meaning "torment" or "grave illness". The term gradually evolved in meaning over time to refer to feelings of unease, doubt, or moral consternation.
