Pronunciation: [wɒst ɐʃˈe͡ɪmd] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the phrase "wasn't ashamed" might lead to confusion due to the pronunciation of the contraction for "was not." The IPA phonetic transcription for "wasn't" is /ˈwʌzənt/, where the "nt" at the end is pronounced with a nasal sound. Therefore, when spoken quickly, it can sound like "wast" instead of "wasn't." To avoid this confusion, it's recommended to write "wasn't ashamed" instead of "wast ashamed."
"Wast ashamed" is an archaic phrase derived from Middle English, specifically from the verb "wast" which is the second-person singular past tense of the verb "be," and "ashamed," an adjective meaning to feel distressed, humiliated, or embarrassed due to one's actions, circumstances, or appearance.
This phrase refers to a state of profound disappointment or regret experienced by an individual. It indicates that the person was severely embarrassed or humiliated, usually as a result of something they had done or a situation they found themselves in. The addition of "wast" emphasizes that this feeling took place in the past.
In modern English, the phrase "wast ashamed" is no longer in common use, as the construction of verbs with the second-person singular past tense has largely evolved. However, it carries the same essential meaning as "you were ashamed" or "you felt ashamed." Here, "wast" functions as the second-person singular past tense of the verb "be," which is irregular. It is the equivalent of "were" in contemporary English.
Despite its lack of contemporary use, understanding the meaning of "wast ashamed" provides insight into the language and communication of earlier eras, showcasing how the English language has transformed over time.
The phrase "wast ashamed" is not a standalone word, but rather a combination of the verb "wast" (an archaic form of the word "was") and the adjective "ashamed". To understand the etymology of these two words, we can look at each individually:
1. Wast: The word "wast" is the second person singular form of the verb "to be" in the past tense. It comes from Old English "wǣre", which was the singular form of the verb "to be" in the past indicative mood. Over time, the word evolved into various forms, and "wast" emerged as the second person singular form used in Middle English. Eventually, it was replaced with the modern form "were".
2. Ashamed: The adjective "ashamed" originated from the Old English word "āscamian", which meant "to feel shame or disgrace".
