Pronunciation: [wˈɜːt] (IPA) 
The word "wert" is a verb that means "were" in archaic English. Its spelling may seem odd, but it follows the conventions of Old English spelling. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /wərt/, with the "w" sound followed by a schwa sound and then the "r" sound. This unique spelling is a result of the evolution of English over time, and it serves as a reminder of the language's rich history and development.
"Wert" is a second-person singular past tense and subjunctive mood form of the verb "to be," used specifically in archaic or old English literature. The term represents the conjugation of "wert" derived from the Old English word "wesan" (to be) and is primarily associated with the pronoun "thou" (you).
This form of "wert" indicates an action or state of being that occurred in the past, particularly in a hypothetical or subjunctive context. It is used to express something that is contrary to reality or unreal, often used in poetic or literary works. For example, in old English poetry, one might find the line "If thou wert mine, then I would be happiest." Here, "wert" is used to convey an unreal or conditional situation, implying that the person being addressed is not actually theirs.
As language evolved over time, the term "wert" lost popularity in everyday speech, being replaced by "were" in modern English. Nevertheless, it can still be encountered in certain historical texts or artistic pieces that strive to maintain an archaic linguistic style. Given its limited usage in contemporary contexts, "wert" is often encountered by individuals with specific interests or during the study of old English literature.
Second pers. sing. of were.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "wert" is a contraction of the archaic second person singular form of the verb "be" in the past tense, used with the pronoun "thou". In Old English, "werthest" was the second person singular form of the verb "beon", which meant "to be". Over time, this form was contracted to "wert". The word "wert" was commonly used in Middle English and Early Modern English, but it has become obsolete in contemporary English.
