The phrase "wert the wind" is an archaic way of saying "were it not for" or "if it weren't for". Its unusual spelling can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Wert" is pronounced /wɜrt/ with a silent "e" and a rhotic "r" sound. Meanwhile, "wind" is pronounced /wɪnd/ to rhyme with "pinned", rather than the usual pronunciation of /waɪnd/ to rhyme with "find". This spelling of "wert the wind" is rarely used today, but can be found in old literature and texts.
"Wert the wind" is an idiom that is commonly used to describe a situation or an action that is futile, meaningless, or lacks purpose. The phrase originated from the Old English word "wërþan," meaning to become or to turn. In this context, "wert" is the archaic second-person singular past subjunctive of "to be."
The phrase suggests that the subject or the task at hand is as insignificant or ephemeral as the wind, which is intangible and constantly changing direction. It implies that any effort or endeavor put forth towards such a task would be fruitless or ultimately meaningless.
When someone mentions that an action or endeavor "wert the wind," it often conveys a sense of resignation or disappointment. It suggests that no matter how much effort or energy is put into something, the outcome will not be beneficial or fulfilling.
The phrase is often used to express a sense of disillusionment or frustration with certain activities or scenarios that appear to be promising but lack substance or actual value. It serves as a cautionary reminder to assess the worth or significance of an undertaking before investing time, energy, or resources into it, as putting effort towards something futile or meaningless serves no useful purpose.