Meaning & Definition of word "Thou"

Thou

/ðaʊ/

1. An archaic second person singular pronoun used to address one person, often in a familiar or intimate manner.
- Example: Thou art my friend.
2. Used as the subject of a verb in the singular form.
- Example: If thou dost not agree, speak now.
3. In older English usage, it was used to express commands or requests.
- Example: Pray, thou shalt listen to my tale.
4. Used in expressions of affection or familiarity.
- Example: Thou hast a kind heart.
5. Commonly found in religious texts and poetry as a term of address.
- Example: O Lord, thou knowest my secrets.

●Old English 'þū' (thou), akin to Old High German 'du', and related to modern 'you'.

thou shalt:

you shall; often used in biblical contexts.

thou hast:

you have; an archaic way of saying you have.

thee:

an archaic form of 'you', used as the objective case.

thy:

an archaic form of 'your'.

thine:

an archaic form of 'yours'.

Meaning: A poetic or affectionate way to address someone.

● Example Sentence: O thou, my dearest friend!

Meaning: Used humorously to emulate old-fashioned speech.

● Example Sentence: What up, thou?