The phrase "wast in receipt of" may seem confusing at first glance, but it is simply an older version of the phrase "was in receipt of." The spelling of "wast" is an archaic form of the verb "was," which was commonly used in Middle English. The /w/ sound is pronounced as in "wait" and the /æ/ sound is like the "a" in "cat." The word "receipt" is pronounced as /rɪˈsiːt/ with the stress on the second syllable and the final "t" is silent.
"Wast in receipt of" is a phrase that combines archaic and more modern language. Each part has its own meaning, which contributes to the overall meaning of the phrase as a whole.
The word "wast" is an old-fashioned form of the verb "to be" in the past tense, used specifically in the second person singular form. It signifies a state of existence or a condition of being at a specific point in the past.
"In receipt of" is a more contemporary phrase, and it means to have received something, usually a document, letter, or a payment. It implies that the recipient has acquired or obtained something, particularly written communication or a financial transaction.
When combined, "wast in receipt of" suggests that the person being referred to had possession of something or had received something specific at some point in the past. This phrase typically conveys a sense of completion or finality regarding the action of receiving. It is commonly used in historical or literary contexts, often depicting a past event or situation.
Overall, "wast in receipt of" can be understood as a formal or poetic way of stating that someone had received or possessed something in the past, emphasizing a sense of finality or completeness in the action.