Pronunciation: [wˈɜːt spˈuːkt] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "wert spooked" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. "Wert" is represented as /wərt/, with the first syllable pronounced as "wuh" and the second syllable similar to "hurt" but with an added "w" sound at the beginning. "Spooked" is represented as /spukt/, with the "oo" sound pronounced as in "book" and the "k" sound at the end emphasized. Overall, the word is pronounced as "wuhrt spukt."
"Wert spooked" is a colloquial phrase that combines archaic and contemporary language to convey a sense of being frightened or startled. The phrase consists of two components: "wert" and "spooked."
"Wert" is an archaic form of the verb "were," which is the second person singular past tense of the verb "to be." It is used here to indicate an old-fashioned or poetic manner of speech. It represents the state of being or existence.
"Spooked" is a more modern term and is derived from the noun "spook," a colloquial term for a ghost or supernatural entity. However, in this context, "spooked" is used as an informal verb meaning to be frightened or alarmed suddenly. It suggests a sense of being caught off guard or experiencing a sudden surge of fear or unease.
Together, "wert spooked" describes a state of being in which someone was suddenly or unexpectedly frightened. This expression is often used to describe a person's reaction to something surprising, alarming, or inexplicable, usually resulting in a brief moment of fear or a startle reflex. It conveys a vivid image of someone being momentarily overcome by fear or experiencing a sudden jolt of adrenaline. The phrase captures the element of surprise and the temporary nature of the fear or unease, implying that the feeling subsides quickly.
The phrase "wert spooked" does not have a clear etymology in the context of the English language. The phrase "wert" is an archaic form of the second person singular past tense of the verb "to be" in old English, while "spooked" is a more familiar term that originated in American English in the 20th century. The word "spooked" typically means to feel or be frightened or startled. However, "wert" in "wert spooked" seems to be a blend of archaic and contemporary language, which is not commonly used in modern English.
