The correct spelling of the phrase "wast hostile to" is somewhat tricky. "Wast" is a contraction of "were" and "you," as in "you were." It is pronounced /wɑːst/ (wahst). "Hostile" is spelled as it sounds, and is pronounced /ˈhɑːstaɪl/ (HAH-styl). The preposition "to" is also spelled as it sounds, and is pronounced /tuː/ (too). Therefore, the full phrase is pronounced /wɑːst ˈhɑːstaɪl tuː/ (wahst HAH-styl too).
"Wast hostile to" is an archaic phrase used in older English texts, often found in literary works and historical accounts. To understand the meaning of this phrase, let's break it down.
"Wast" is the second person singular past form of the verb "be" in Middle English. It means "were" or "was" in modern English. This indicates that the subject being referred to was in the past.
"Hostile" is an adjective that describes someone or something as being unfriendly, antagonistic, or opposed to others. It suggests a strong negative feeling or intent.
"To" in this phrase indicates the direction or target of the hostility.
Putting it all together, "wast hostile to" implies that the subject, which existed in the past, had a disposition that was openly unfriendly, antagonistic, or opposed to someone or something. The phrase conveys the idea of active animosity, antagonism, or opposition towards a target.
The usage of this phrase is mostly limited to older texts due to the evolution of the English language. However, understanding its meaning can provide insight into historical contexts, relationships, or conflicts that were prevalent at the time these texts were written.