The word "knowest" is spelled with a silent "w" which can be misleading to many English language learners. The correct IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription for this word is /noʊəst/. The "k" sound is represented by the first letter "n", followed by the "oʊ" diphthong for the "ow" sound, and the "-əst" ending represents the second person singular present tense of the verb "to know". Despite its unusual spelling, "knowest" was commonly used in Early Modern English literature during the time of Shakespeare.
The term "knowest" is a verb that serves as the second person singular form of the verb "to know" in archaic English. "Knowest" is derived from the Old English word "cnāwan" and belongs to the conjugation of the verb "know" specifically used in second person singular, present tense. It signifies an action of familiarity, comprehension, or recognition that is exclusive to the individual being directly addressed.
"Knowest" refers to the act of possessing or acquiring knowledge or understanding about something or someone in a personal and intuitive manner. It emphasizes awareness, cognizance, and acquaintance. The use of "knowest" indicates a close relationship between the subject and the object of knowledge, suggesting a deep understanding, experience, or intimacy.
The term can be found in the religious texts of Christianity and plays a prominent role in various hymns and prayers. It is often used to address God, emphasizing the belief and trust in Him. In this context, "knowest" reflects the acknowledgement of God's all-knowing nature and the individual's trust in His wisdom and guidance.
Overall, "knowest" is an archaic verb in English that signifies an individual's comprehension, awareness, or familiarity with something or someone. Its usage emphasizes personal knowledge and understanding, typically employed to address a singular individual in the second person form.
The word "knowest" is derived from the Middle English verb "knowen", which itself comes from the Old English word "cnāwan". This Old English verb is believed to have a Germanic origin, being related to the Gothic word "kunthan" and the Old Norse word "kenna". All these terms share the common meaning of "know" or "recognize".