Pronunciation: [wɒst ɛnɡˈe͡ɪd͡ʒd ˈɪn] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "wast engaged in" can be a bit confusing due to its archaic construction. The word "wast" is an old form of the verb "was" and is pronounced /wɑːst/. The word "engaged" is pronounced /ɪnˈɡeɪdʒd/ and means "occupied" or "involved." When combined, the phrase means "was occupied/involved in." While not used often today, it can still be found in literary works or historic documents.
The phrase "wast engaged in" is a combination of two words: "wast" and "engaged", with the preposition "in" connecting them. "Wast" is an archaic form of the verb "was" which indicates the past tense of the verb "to be". "Engaged" is the past participle form of the verb "to engage", which means to occupy someone's attention or involvement in an activity or task. Meanwhile, the preposition "in" denotes a relationship of being involved or participating in something.
Thus, the phrase "wast engaged in" implies that someone or something was involved, occupied, or actively participating in a particular activity or task in the past. It suggests an ongoing commitment, focus, or immersion in a specific endeavor. This phrase usually refers to an individual's or a group's dedicated involvement in an action or responsibility, portraying their commitment and concentration towards a particular undertaking.
It is important to note that the phrase "wast engaged in" is outdated and not commonly used in contemporary English. It is more characteristic of Shakespearean or older literature and may be encountered while reading old texts or poetry from 16th to 18th-century literature.
