The correct spelling of the phrase "wast one of" is with an "e" in "wast". This was the archaic form of "was" in early Modern English. The IPA transcription for "wast" is /wɑːst/. This spelling was commonly used from the 16th to the early 18th century before it was eventually replaced by the modern-day "was". In literature and historical texts, the spelling "wast" can still be found as a reminder of the evolution of the English language.
"Wast one of" is a phrase that combines the old English word "wast," which is the second person singular past tense of the verb "to be," and the preposition "one of." Given that "one of" indicates a partitive or fractional relationship, "wast one of" can be understood as an archaic way of saying "were one of" or "was one of" in modern English. This phrase indicates that someone or something was part of a specific group or category under consideration.
In the context of historical literature or texts written in old English, "wast one of" was commonly used to describe an individual's position or membership within a certain collective. It presented a way to express that the subject belonged to a particular set or group. For example, if someone were to say "Thou wast one of our bravest knights," it would imply that the person being addressed was previously regarded as a brave knight among the group being referred to.
Due to its antiquated usage, "wast one of" is no longer commonly employed in contemporary English conversations or writings. Nonetheless, it serves as a relic of the language's earlier forms and can be encountered in period films, theatrical productions, or literature from previous centuries. Understanding this phrase is crucial for interpreting and appreciating works from the past.