"Hadst confidence in" is an archaic phrase derived from Middle English and its usage can be found in older texts, particularly in poetry, plays, or writings from the Shakespearean era. It consists of two main components: "hadst" and "confidence in."
The word "hadst" is an inflected form of the verb "have" and is conjugated in the second person singular past tense of the Middle English language. It denotes ownership or possession, indicating that the subject or narrator possessed something in the past.
On the other hand, "confidence in" refers to a feeling or trust in someone or something. It implies a belief in someone's ability, honesty, or reliability. The preposition "in" denotes that the confidence is directed towards someone or something, emphasizing the notion of reliance or faith.
Therefore, when combined, the phrase "hadst confidence in" signifies that in the past, the subject had trust or belief in someone or something. It implies a sense of reliance or conviction that an individual possessed towards a certain person or entity, suggesting that they had previously placed their faith or confidence in that individual or entity.
However, it is important to note that this phrase is rarely used in contemporary English and tends to be found only in older literature. Its usage today is considered outdated or obsolete, with more modern equivalents being "had confidence in" or "trusted."
