Hast: meaning, definitions and examples

The word 'hast' originates from the Old English 'hāfst,' which is derived from the Proto-Germanic '*haband,' relating to the concept of possession or existence. This form was used predominantly in the second person, singular. 'Hast' made its way into Middle English, retaining its form and meaning throughout this period, commonly appearing in texts from the late medieval era. As the English language evolved, particularly during the transition from Middle English to Early Modern English, the usage of 'hast' began to decline as English shifted to a more simplified form of grammar and vocabulary, leading to the replacement of 'thou' and its derivatives, including 'hast', with the more universal 'you' and 'have.' Nowadays, 'hast' is primarily encountered in poetic, biblical, and archaic contexts, maintaining its presence largely in works by authors like Shakespeare and in religious texts like the King James Bible, where its historical significance is preserved.

At #6,339 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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